Marlins Win Race To Sign Leyland Ex-Pirates Boss Rejects Three Others

Jim Leyland paused during his news conference Friday to try on a new Florida Marlins jersey, then jokingly complained it was a bit big.

To the Marlins, it looks like a perfect fit.

Florida finished first in a furious four-team race for Leyland, who flew down from Pittsburgh early Friday and signed a five-year contract to manage a team that has never had a winning season.

Leyland, 51, chose Florida over two American League teams, the Chicago White Sox and Boston Red Sox. He earlier rejected an offer from the California Angels.

Financial terms weren’t disclosed, but Leyland’s contract was believed to be near the $1.5 million earned annually by St. Louis’ Tony La Russa, the highest-paid manager in baseball.

Astros hire Dierker

The Houston Astros have fired manager Terry Collins and replaced him with former pitcher-turned-broadcaster Larry Dierker.

Dierker, 50, has no coaching experience. He was given a two-year contract. No terms were announced.

Dierker compiled a 139-123 record for the Astros from 1964 through 1976 and for the St. Louis Cardinals in 1977.