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BIG CHANGES FOR THE
FISH
The Florida Marlins went quickly from a team of uncertain future to a
team with a strong foundation and positive outlook. After months of
failing efforts, Owner John Henry finally found a way to build a 40,000
seat convertible roof stadium, for a price close to $385 million.
The plan calls for a significant contribution on behalf of John Henry, but
will include help from a Florida bed tax. In addition, the Marlins
have signed a 40 year lease to use the facility, which will be built in
Bicentennial Park in downtown Miami. The stadium will be finished
for the 2004 season, the same year that the Marlins will officially become
the "Miami Marlins", pending league approval. A day after
the monumental announcement, former Marlins catcher and '97 Series hero
Charles Johnson was signed, making a return to the team that gave him his
start. The Marlins signed Johnson to a 5 year contract, worth an
estimated $35 million. Johnson is coming off a career year, and
should provide the Fish with solid veteran leadership.
Catcher,
#23
6-2
225 lbs |
Bats:R, Throws:R
Born:7/10/71
Career Highlights: 4 time Gold
Glover, 1997 All Star and '97 World Series Champion. Holds
MLB record for consecutive errorless games with
172.
With Marlins: '92-98,
2001-Present. Signed through 2006. |
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Updated: 1/29/01, 7:41 PM
CST 