The second class of the Marlins Legends Hall of Fame has two new members.
At the club’s annual FanFest event at loanDepot park, the Marlins announced that 2003 World Series pitching heroes Josh Beckett and Dontrelle Willis will have their names enshrined on plaques in the stadium’s museum.
The Marlins took their first step toward properly celebrating the franchise’s history by establishing the team’s Hall of Fame last season. “Each year, we’ll celebrate former players, coaches, managers, and staff members for their contributions to not just the Marlins organization, but also our South Florida communities,” the club said.
Marlins chairman and principal owner Bruce Sherman added, “We are proud to create a deserving tribute for legends who have played integral roles in shaping our franchise.”
Beckett, arguably the greatest homegrown pitcher in franchise history, spent the first five seasons of his major league career with Florida. He made 106 starts during that span, not including five superb outings during the team’s 2003 championship run. His World Series–clinching Game 6 start was the highlight of an impressive postseason, as he tossed a complete-game shutout against the Joe Torre–led New York Yankees.
Willis, affectionately known as “D-Train,” remains a fan favorite. The talented left-hander also spent five seasons with the Marlins, beginning with the championship season in 2003, when he won National League Rookie of the Year honors. During his time in South Florida—the best stretch of his career—Willis made 162 starts, posted a 3.78 ERA, and earned two All-Star selections.
The HOF’s inaugural class included Luis Castillo, Jeff Conine, Jim Leyland and Jack McKeon. All of them with the exception of Leyland were part of the ’03 squad as well.
Beckett’s induction ceremony will be on September 6 and Willis’ on September 13. The first 10,000 fans to arrive for each of those games will receive bobbleheads.