Ozzie Guillen deserves another chance as a MLB manager
Over a decade has passed since Ozzie Guillen managed in the majors.
Guillen was considered to be one of the better young managers in the game at the beginning of his tenure. He won the World Series in his second season on the bench, the White Sox's first pennant since 1959 and first championship since 1917.
Personality clashes with GM Ken Williams led to his being traded to the Marlins for the 2012 season, a year that ended in disaster for the 'new and improved' franchise.
Guillen was let go, the Marlins' performance and his comments about Fidel Castro setting his brief tenure off on the wrong foot.
He has continued to be around the game since. Guillen has been a part of the White Sox pregame and postgame shows.
He managed the Tiburones de La Guaira in 2016-17, returning this offseason. His return proved to be a success as La Guaira won the Caribbean Series, Venezuela's eighth title and first in 15 years.
The fire is still there. Guillen wants to manage in the majors once more. He was a candidate for both the White Sox and Padres openings before being passed over.
Guillen said that he would be willing to return to the Marlins if the situation arose. It is simply a matter of getting the opportunity.
It is something he deserves. Guillen is never going to change — his lack of a filter and willingness to speak his mind will alienate some people.
But Guillen also generates loyalty from his players. They play hard and would run through the proverbial wall for him. If a team is looking to completely change their direction and clubhouse, Guillen would make that happen.
All he needs is another chance.
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