Before Saturday's game the Marlins announced they extended the contracts of their key executives for the remainder of their natural lives.
OK, not that long, but it's an eternity in baseball terms. General Manager Larry Beinfest, Assistant GM Michael Hill, VP of Player Personnel Dan Jennings and VP of Scouting and Player Development Jim Fleming all had their deals extended through 2015. Remember it was only two seasons ago that owner Jeffrey Loria gave those guys contracts through 2010.
The heirarchy of the organization remains the same, but the Marlins did change a few titles. Beinfest is now President, Baseball Operations. Hill is the VP, General Manager. Jennings had assistant general manager added to his title.
Loria feels comfortable with these guys. He trusts them. They work well together. They built a World Series winner for him. He's basically entrusting them with the task of doing it all over again.
Have to think this is a premtive strike as well. The three guys under Beinfest would have been perennial GM candidates. Even Beinfest himself might have drawn interest from a big market clubs. At one point he was linked to the Dodgers when they were looking for a GM. In exchange for the long-term security, those guys basically are giving up the right to pursue jobs heading up other organizations.
Loria obviosuly is happy with the job Beinfest and his lieutenants are doing. Any contrary opinions out there?
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