McKeon to retire after season

MIAMI — Jack McKeon, the winningest manager in Marlins history, announced on Monday that he is retiring as manager at the end of the season.The decision is not shocking since McKeon stepped in as interim manager on June 20 after Edwin Rodriguez resigned.At age 80, McKeon is the second oldest manager in MLB history. Only legendary COnnie Mack, 87, was older.

McKeon is Florida’s all-time winningest manager, posting a 280-255 record in his tenure with the organization.

With 62 years of professional baseball experience, McKeon helped bring tremendous credibility to the Marlins, guiding them to the 2003 World Series.

In May of ’03, McKeon replaced Jeff Torborg. At the time, he was 72. The Marlins went 75-49 with McKeon at the helm in ’03, and they claimed the National League Wild Card with a 91-71 overall record.

Florida upset the Yankees to win the title, earning McKeon the ’03 NL Manager of the Year award.

McKeon retired after the 2005 season, and since then he was a special advisor to team owner Jeffrey Loria.

Since replacing Rodriguez, the Marlins are 39-48 in McKeon’s second stint.

In 2012, the Marlins will move into their new ballpark, and they will be moving in a different direction.

The organization will consider White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen, if he becomes available. Bobby Valentine and Larry Bowa also could be in the mix.

On Monday, the team interviewed third base/outfield coach Joe Espada and Nationals third base coach Bo Porter for the manager job.

– Joe Frisaro