Under Perry Hill, there have been many gold gloves. Orlando Cabrera in 2001, Luis Castillo grabbed three from 2003-2005, Derek Lee recieved his first in 2003 under Hill’s guidance and Mike Lowell recieved his first in 2005.
Even more impressive was how he handled last season’s staff of rookies, which posted the third best fielding percentage in team history at .983. The best ever was .987 in 2003, on their way to the franchise’s second world title.
You can bet Perry Hill will be missed.
He came over as a member of the Expos and Torborg’s staff when Jeffrey Loria took over as Marlins owner. He was immediately hailed by the Marlins players who were already gifted fielders but where made even better by Hill’s tutelage. Mike Lowell, Derek Lee, Luis Castillo, and even Alex Gonzalez – who didn’t get a gold glove but was in contention each season with his slick fielding – all of them praised Hill for his ability to push them and improve them each season.
On the positive side, Hill is retiring and will spend time with his family. Also, his stamp on the Marlins instructional program will remain in-tact, as his teachings have filtered their way down the system. Also, new hire Andy Fox, the former Marlins utility man, worked with Hill for two seasons and will build upon Hill’s program.
Still, Perry Hill will be missed. He has been through a lot with the Marlins, and each year he dedicated himself to being the top instructor in his field.
About John Ricard
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