Miami Marlins manager Ozzie Guillen got a five-game suspension for singing the praises of Cuban dictator Fidel Castro. Miami has a strong Cuban community and many of them are not big fans of Castro, having fled the country at some point since his family’s rule began. Guillen claims his words were “misinterpreted” and that he was trying to say how horrible Castro is. Instead he told Time magazine he loves Castro, and:
I respect Fidel Castro. You know why? A lot of people have wanted to kill Fidel Castro for the last 60 years, but that motherf***** is still here.
Miami Marlins manager Ozzie Guillen got a five-game suspension for singing the praises of Cuban dictator Fidel Castro. Miami has a strong Cuban community and many of them are not big fans of Castro, having fled the country at some point since his family’s rule began. Guillen claims his words were “misinterpreted” and that he was trying to say how horrible Castro is. Instead he told Time magazine he loves Castro, and:
I respect Fidel Castro. You know why? A lot of people have wanted to kill Fidel Castro for the last 60 years, but that motherf***** is still here.
Many have wondered if Guillen would also say he loves and respects Adolf Hitler for coming to power and massacring those he disagrees with.
But what would have happened if he used a homophobic slur? We actually have a good idea. Six years ago he called a writer a "fag." The Chicago White Sox issued no penalty, and Major League Baseball handed out a token $20k fine. The difference? He was brought to Miami to attract the fans he has so desperately alienated with his comments. The Marlins had no problem with what Guillen said…until the local fanbase threatened a revolt.
PHOTO: Apr 7, 2012; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Miami Marlins manager Ozzie Guillen (13) watches during the second inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Frank Victores-US PRESSWIRE
