Marlins Turn to McCullough for Managerial Reboot
The Miami Marlins have made a decisive move in reshaping their future, naming Clayton McCullough as their new manager. At 44, McCullough steps into this pivotal role, becoming the 17th manager in the franchise's history. His appointment comes amid a time of significant change and a rebuilding phase for the Marlins, whose most recent season concluded with a disappointing record of 62-100, placing them at the bottom of the National League East.
From the Dodgers to the Marlins
Clayton McCullough arrives in Miami after spending several seasons as the first-base coach with the Los Angeles Dodgers, a position he held since 2021. During his tenure with the Dodgers, McCullough worked closely with Gabe Kapler in the team’s player development department, gaining invaluable experience that he now brings to the Marlins’ dugout.
Prior to his stint in Los Angeles, McCullough accumulated managerial experience in the minor-league system of the Toronto Blue Jays. His journey in professional baseball began as a catcher in the Cleveland organization, which drafted him out of East Carolina University in the 22nd round of the 2002 draft. McCullough played parts of four seasons with Cleveland, reaching as high as the Triple-A level before transitioning to coaching.
Leadership Changes in Miami
McCullough's hiring is part of a broader restructuring within the Marlins organization. The team is undergoing its third managerial change since 2022, indicating a strategic shift under the ownership of Bruce Sherman. Notably, the Marlins have also reshaped their front office, replacing Kim Ng with Peter Bendix as the new president of baseball operations. These changes underscore Miami's commitment to reimagining its approach as it embarks on rebuilding its roster and operations.
McCullough succeeds Skip Schumaker, who led the Marlins to an impressive 84-win season and a playoff berth in 2023. In recognition of that achievement, Schumaker was awarded the National League Manager of the Year. However, his tenure concluded at the end of the 2024 season after the team decided to amend his contract by removing a club option for 2025.
The Road Ahead
The transition in leadership marks a new chapter for the Marlins, who are eager to escape the shadows of a challenging 2024 season. McCullough's multifaceted experience, spanning player development and coaching in both major and minor leagues, positions him as a suitable candidate to spearhead the club’s turnaround efforts.
Under McCullough’s management, the Marlins will look to harness his comprehensive understanding of player development to build a team capable of competing at the highest level. As they lay the groundwork for future success, the focus in Miami will be on fostering young talent and instilling a culture of winning.
The Marlins hope that this latest managerial change, along with strategic adjustments in their organizational structure, will ignite a resurgence within the franchise, spurring them back to playoff contention and restoring confidence among their fanbase. For McCullough, the task ahead is clear: to transform a team rooted in potential into genuine contenders in the near future.