Dontrelle Willis was a rising star with the Florida Marlins.
The Marlins were struggling in early 2003. They team fired manager, Jeff Torborg, and hired former Cincinnati manager, Jack McKeon. McKeon, who was an advisor to the general manager, knew the Florida minor league system.
McKeon brought the then 21-year old Willis to the Major Leagues. He made his debut on May 9 pitching six innings against Colorado. He beat San Diego in his second start. He won back-to-back starts against Cincinnati before the month ended.
He won 14 games for the World Champion Marlins that year.
When Florida held a fire sale in 2007, Willis was packaged with Miguel Cabrera and traded to the Detroit Tigers. He appeared in just 24 games with the Tigers and shipped to Arizona late last season. He was released and signed by San Francisco, who allowed him to become a free agent on November 6.
Still just 28 years old, the lefthander was signed by the Reds and invited to spring training. The Reds a flush with good young starting pitching. Willis will likely work out of the bullpen if he earns a spot on the Reds roster.
Cincinnati Sports News and Commentary
About Me
- Gary Schatz
- I am a freelance writer. I've covered the Cincinnati Reds, Bengals and others since 1992. I have a background in sales as well. I've sold consumer electronics, advertising and consumer package goods for companies ranging from the now defunct Circuit City to Procter&Gamble. I have worked as a stats operator for Xavier University, the University of Cincinnati, the College of Mount St. Joe and Colerain High School.
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