After the team hired new manager Don Mattingly earlier in the day, the Miami Marlins have dismissed general manager and interim manager Dan Jennings.
The Miami Marlins are continuing to shake things up as they try to become a contender in the National League. Last season they let go of manager Mike Redmond during the middle of the season and general manager Dan Jennings came down from the front office to manage the Marlins.
The team still struggled throughout the year and it was clear that the Marlins would be looking to bring in a new manager that could turn the under-performing team into playoff contenders.
Earlier on Thursday, the Marlins found their man when they hired former Los Angeles Dodgers manager Don Mattingly to be the new skipper of the franchise. As for whether or not their interim manager would go back to being the general manager, it appears that is not going to happen.
According to the Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, the Miami Marlins are indeed dismissing Dan Jennings as their general manager as the team seeks to go in a new direction.
Per sources, the Marlins have dismissed Dan Jennings. They believe it's in best interests of organization. Announcement expected later.
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) October 29, 2015
The move certainly makes sense for the Marlins. The team finished 71-91 and once again missed the playoffs despite having some high-priced players on the roster. Jennings put some talent on the roster, but could never find the right mix around Giancarlo Stanton to turn the team into a contender.
Despite having a high team batting average, the team ranked toward the bottom in most offensive categories. Their pitching was middle of the road this past season and can certainly use some upgrades as well.
With a top manager in the fold, it’s time for the team to pair a top general manager with him. The addition of Mattingly should be a boost for Miami. If they can add a someone who is superior at evaluating talent, they will have a chance to be dynamic.
It was apparent that general manger wasn’t going to be Dan Jennings.