Gonzalez still Marlins skipper
MIAMI (AP) – The manager with the most wins in Florida Marlins history will be given a chance to increase his total.
Fredi Gonzalez will return in 2010, the Marlins said Tuesday, ending two days of speculation about his status.
The Marlins, however, will seek a new pitching coach to replace Mark Wiley, who has been offered a different position in the organization.
Gonzalez’s job was considered in jeopardy because owner Jeffrey Loria was upset that the Marlins failed to make the playoffs, although they finished 12 games above .500 with the smallest payroll in baseball. Loria met with organization officials Monday in New York to discuss the status of Gonzalez and his coaching staff.
In a statement Tuesday, Loria said the postseason evaluation was normal.
“Every organization regularly evaluates itself to see how it can improve,” Loria said. “We do this on a constant basis. Our fans would expect no less.
“We are pleased with a winning season. And we are disappointed we did not make the playoffs. We always want to exceed expectations. Our fans share these feelings also.”
Loria didn’t address an ESPN.com report last week that former Mets and Rangers manager Bobby Valentine talked with the Marlins about a job.
Florida’s final victory this season was the 242nd for Gonzalez, and he passed Jack McKeon for most wins by a manager in team history. He’s one of only three managers to lead Florida to a winning season.
The Marlins will change pitching coaches after four of their five young starters performed below expectations. First base-infield coach Andy Fox will be replaced, but has been offered another position, the organization said.
Five coaches were offered contracts to remain in their current roles: bench coach Carlos Tosca, hitting coach Jim Presley, third base-outfield coach Bo Porter, bullpen coach Steve Foster and bullpen coordinator Pierre Arsenault.