The Miami Marlins introduced Kim Ng as their new general manager today, streaming live now on Twitter and broadcast on MLB Network. It is a muted affair because of coronavirus protocols – but the magnitude of the moment is anything but. Per Jordan McPherson of the Miami Herald (via Twitter), Ng said:
The idea that it has effected this many people is just extraordinary. I thought it would be a big deal, but this is beyond my expectations … People are looking for hope, are looking for inspiration. I’m happy this is part of it.”
Ng receieved over 1,000 messages of congratulations “from all walks,” including writers, former players, current managers, scouts, executives, and others. Ng reflected on what it took to accomplish this dream, while recognizing the importance of the moment for the sport, saying, “If you work hard and you persevere and you’re driven and you just keep going, that eventually your dream will come true.”
The defining characteristic of her journey, said Ng, was fearlessness. She recognized Marlins CEO Derek Jeter for setting an example of the sort of fearlessness needed to be a great player, and for now demonstrating similar fortitude as an executive. As much courage as she needed to interview for position after position over the years, it would seem she landed in the right place. Ng lauded the Miami organization for building a diverse organization:
“The information has become more precise, but you can’t ignore the different perspectives needed.”
She spoke about the ease with which she’s been able to communicate with people within the Marlins organization, which she attributes to her experience and level of comfort with, among others, Gary Denbo, Jeter, and Don Mattingly, the latter of whom she worked with in Los Angeles. Interestingly, Ng said that she hasn’t face much resistance in the day-to-day throughout her career.
Still, this moment was a long time coming, and it’s a comfort to many. Per MLB Network’s Jon Morosi (via Twitter), Ng said:
I thought it would be a big deal, but this is beyond my expectations . . . People are looking for hope. People are looking for inspiration. I’m happy that this is part of it.”
More to come…