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D-Train always destined for television career
Joe Frisaro of MLB.com covered left-hander Dontrelle Willis throughout his tenure on the Marlins. From Frisaro’s own observations and in speaking to former players and coaches, this feature explains why D-Train has the personality and skill set to make a successful transition from athlete to broadcaster.
A 2020 Fish Stripes Marlins Hall of Fame candidate, Willis won the 2003 NL Rookie of the Year and contributed to that season’s World Series title, pitching more than 1,000 innings during five seasons in South Florida before being traded to the Tigers. His performance deteriorated from there and he officially retired in 2015. A golf outing with Jerry Hairston Jr. and Aaron Boone soon after that encouraged Willis to pursue his second career as a TV pundit.
The 38-year-old is now a regular on FS1’s MLB Whiparound.
This week, Frisaro also (controversially) selected Gary Sheffield to be included in MLB.com’s team-by-team look at all-time sweetest swings. While nobody can deny Sheff’s incredible Marlins production, his swings mechanics were notoriously “violent” rather than aesthetically pleasing.
Gordon recognized for philanthropy
Dee Gordon is this year’s winner of the Hutch Award, which honors major leaguers for their “grit, determination and humanity.”
Motivated by the tragic loss of his mother, Gordon created Flash of Hope in 2015 to support local children whose families have been impacted by domestic violence. Previously in Miami and now in Seattle, he provides the kids with game tickets, field access, meals and merchandise. He has also been involved in multiple campaigns to fundraise for those battling hunger internationally.
Along with Gordon, current Marlins infielder Miguel Rojas was among the five Hutch Award finalists.
Why I Love Baseball—Marlins fan edition
Every Marlins fan has a unique story, memorable experiences, and a special personal connection to the game.
So, while we’re all home eagerly awaiting baseball’s return, Fish Stripes is collaborating with Zack Raab to put a spotlight on fellow Marlins fans, reflecting on our passion for the game and infusing an extra bit of baseball positivity into our days.
If you’d like to take part and reminisce about your love of the game, please fill out the “Why I Love Baseball” survey. We will be selecting some responses to share in this new section of the site!
Walk-off links
- Right-hander Brett Graves shares his tips for throwing a curveball.
- Left-hander Alex Vesia will participate in a virtual seminar today from 4-5 p.m. ET titled “The Business of Baseball: Maximizing a Player’s Value.”
- Immediately after that, MLB Dream Bracket results will be revealed at 5 ET for the Marlins vs. Dodgers best-of-seven series. The MLB.com series preview notes that the Dodgers franchise has more all-time postseason appearances (33) than the Marlins have total seasons played (27)—that discrepancy in longevity puts the latter at a significant disadvantage.
- Ryne Stanek and the Marlins have been virtually eliminated from qualifying for the MLB The Show Players League postseason. He’ll stream three games on Twitch beginning at 9 ET. But if you are interested in watching the top competitors in action, select games will be broadcasted on ESPN, ESPN2, FS1 and MLB Network.
- The Statcast podcast drafted the best Rookie of the Year seasons since 2000 (AL and NL players combined). Marlins ROY winners were selected at No. 6 (2013 José Fernandez), No. 20 (2010 Hanley Ramírez), No. 22 (2003 Dontrelle Willis) and No. 33 (2009 Chris Coghlan).
- After preparing Italian dishes each of the previous two weeks, Francisco Cervelli shows us how to do Arroz con Pollo.