Mr. Marlin to retire

One of the classiest athletes EVER in any sport in South Florida is about to retire. Jeff Conine, who was an expansion draft pick in 1993 went on to become arguably the most beloved Marlin, is going to sign a 1 day contract with the Fish and be honored in a ceremony before opening day. The most exciting play I ever saw in person was Edgar Renteria's World Series winning hit in 1997, because of what it meant. The BEST play I ever saw in person was in the 2003 playoffs against San Francisco when Niner threw JT Snow out at the plate (Pudge Rodriguez held on to the ball after the collision) to end the series. If this play happened in the World Series instead of the first round of the playoffs, it might have been known as the best play to end a playoff game in baseball history. LINK TO ARTICLE

Conine to retire a Marlin 03/16/2008 1:29 PM ET By Joe Frisaro / MLB.com VERO BEACH, Fla. -- Fittingly, Mr. Marlin will ultimately retire as a Marlin. According to a source, Jeff Conine, one of the most popular players in Florida history, will sign a one-day contract on March 28, and then retire as a member of the Marlins. Nicknamed "Mr. Marlin," the 41-year-old was a member of the team's inaugural roster, and he enjoyed two stints with the organization. A versatile performer who mostly played first base and the outfield, he was a vital part of the franchise's World Series titles in 1997 and 2003. Conine, who resides year-round in South Florida in Weston, is scheduled to sign his one-day contract March 28, when the Marlins play an exhibition game against the Yankees at Dolphin Stadium. The team also plans on honoring Conine during an on-field ceremony before their March 31 season opener against the Mets. The Marlins, however, are not planning on retiring Conine's number. He actually wore two. From 1993-97, he donned No. 19. When he returned in a trade from the Orioles on Aug. 31, 2003, he was given No. 18. He remained with the Marlins through 2005. Conine is currently training for an Ironman triathlon competition, which is consuming much of his time these days. The team is leaving open the option of bringing Conine back to the organization in an advisory capacity. Conine enjoyed a 17-year big league career, breaking in with the Royals in 1990. He also played for the Marlins, Orioles, Phillies and Reds before he finished up last year with the Mets. Respected for his hard-nosed style of play and his professionalism, Conine finished with a .285 career batting average. He added 214 home runs and 1,071 RBIs. Conine ranks among the Marlins' leaders in a number of categories. He is second in team history in games played (1,014), total hits (1,005), singles (688), RBIs (553) and total bases (1,579). He is the franchise leader in grand slams with six.