Feeling frustrated
Some players voice discord over McKeon.
MIAMI GARDENS — All of the Marlins agree that the team is underachieving because top players are not performing to their potential. But some players also fault manager Jack McKeon, saying that he sets a negative tone.
"There's obviously something wrong," said a player, one of five who spoke on condition of anonymity. "We don't have the same chemistry we had two years ago.''
It was May 2003 when McKeon was named to replace Jeff Torborg, who was fired. McKeon, who was known for his fiery temperament, led the struggling team to a World Series championship.
But now, some players find his style abrasive and are weary of his profanity-laced critiques. Some also object to his shuffling of the lineup.
McKeon contends that he hasn't changed since taking over the club. The difference now, he said, is the recent lack of success.
"When things go tough, everybody has different theories," he said before Thursday's game.
He added that he hasn't heard of any disharmony.
"None of the players have complained," he said. "If you don't like something, come in and talk to me. My door's always open.''