Dontrelle Willis News

JUPITER, Fla. (AP) _ New Florida Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez knew long ago Dontrelle Willis would likely be his first opening day starter. And throughout spring training, it was assumed that the plan hadn't changed. So when Gonzalez finally announced the decision on Monday, only one guy seemed taken aback. ``Of course I'm surprised,'' Willis said. ``I'm excited. I wanted it, but that doesn't mean I'll have it next year. ...

Dontrelle Willis' season ended Sunday with an animated conversation on the mound. He lobbied Florida Marlins manager Joe Girardi to stay in the game but lost the debate, leaving in the second inning against Philadelphia because of a sore left triceps. X-rays were negative, and Girardi and Willis said the injury wasn't serious. But afterward, Willis acknowledged that leaving the game was the right move. ``Skip didn't want to risk ...

Florida Marlins ace Dontrelle Willis left Sunday's season-ending game against Philadelphia in the second inning after the team trainer twice visited the mound. Willis threw only 19 pitches before departing after 1 1-3 innings. There was no immediate report on the nature of any injury. Manager Joe Girardi accompanied the trainer to the mound both times and pulled Willis after he gave up a single. Willis also walked and hit ...