Two days after the Miami Marlins announced that they and manager Skip Schumaker had mutually agreed to part ways, president of baseball operations Peter Bendix declined to offer details about the separation. Bendix spoke for 13 minutes to the media at loanDepot park on Tuesday but gave no clear explanation for the anticipated split or whether there were any talks about Schumaker remaining with the team. Last winter, both parties had decided to void the 2025 team option in Schumaker’s contract, leaving his future with the team uncertain. “I have a lot of respect for Skip. I enjoyed working with him,” Bendix commented, adding that he would keep their conversations private. He echoed similar sentiments throughout the interview, emphasizing that they had numerous discussions both during and at the end of the season.
The Marlins are now exploring various candidates to replace Schumaker, with Bendix noting that the search will be thorough, though no timeline has been set. “The ideal time is as soon as possible,” he added. Decisions regarding Schumaker’s coaching staff will be made following discussions later this week, which will also help determine if any of them will be considered for the managerial position.
Schumaker, who was named the 2023 NL Manager of the Year in his first season with the Marlins, led the team to 85 wins and a wild card berth, their first full-season postseason appearance since their 2003 World Series win. He was well-liked by the players, contributing to their perseverance during a challenging 2024 season marred by injuries and roster changes. Despite a 62-100 finish after an 0-9 start, Bendix acknowledged that the manager is crucial to the team’s success but stressed that there are many ways to excel in the role.
When asked what makes the Marlins’ managerial role appealing, Bendix expressed excitement about the team’s future. “Even though it was a frustrating and disappointing season, we made improvements across the board and laid the groundwork for something special.” The Marlins had not been expected to rebuild after 2023, a season in which they avoided a losing record for the first time in their 12 full seasons at loanDepot park. However, this year, the team set an MLB record by using 70 different players and traded key players like Luis Arráez, Jazz Chisholm Sr., and Tanner Scott.
Bendix reassured frustrated fans by emphasizing the long-term vision for the team. “We’re building something that can be successful for the long-term. That’s our goal, and we’re doing everything we can to get there.” He also mentioned ongoing discussions with Marlins chairman and principal owner Bruce Sherman regarding the team’s financial commitment, noting Sherman’s support in providing resources to build a successful organization.
When asked about the timeline for the Marlins to return to postseason contention, Bendix acknowledged that it’s difficult to predict. However, he expressed confidence in the foundation they have built at the major-league level and in the prospects they’ve added to the upper levels of the minor leagues. Several young players, such as Connor Norby, Xavier Edwards, Otto Lopez, and Jake Burger, showed significant growth in the final months of the season, and Bendix highlighted their potential to contribute to the team’s future success. Additionally, he pointed to a strong group of players in Double-A and Triple-A who have the potential to grow together.
