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The Los Angeles Dodgers lost a key member of their coaching staff during the offseason as Clayton McCullough was hired to be the new Miami Marlins manager.
McCullough had spent the last 10 seasons in the Dodgers organization, including four as first base coach under manager Dave Roberts.
With the Marlins beginning a three-game series at Dodger Stadium this week, McCullough was presented his 2024 World Series ring and gold jersey.
“Clayton is a very, very special person. A very special coach. The Marlins got a really good one,” Roberts said.
“We miss him a ton. He helped us win a championship. For me, it’s a guy who loves people, loves players, loves the game, always wants to learn and really see people thrive. I think that’s really a good trait for a manager.
“And also still willing to have a hard conversation to challenge people. He brings energy every day, and the Marlins are playing good baseball. As I was talking to Clayton today, I think he said there were 18 players this year that made their Opening Day debut.
“It’s a little different than our club, but there’s a lot of talent there and they’re playing good baseball. I miss him dearly, but I’m happy to see he can sort of make his own way now.”
Roberts further detailed McCullough’s importance to the Dodgers organization over the last decade. “He was a game-changer. When he was here, he was the farm director in the Minor Leagues, so he has that under his belt,” Roberts said.
“And as far as a Major League coach, he was in charge of the outfield and baserunning. We did a really good job with the outfield preventing runs and being aggressive smartly on the bases.
“Really a great worker. Certainly in this role, he’s not doing that anymore. His scope has gotten a lot more broad, but he’s handling it well.”
Clayton McCullough ‘couldn’t be more thankful’ for Dave Roberts
When McCullough first became the Marlins manager, he praised Roberts for fostering a positive work environment and trusting everyone to do their jobs.
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