Marlins staying with Rodriguez

MIAMI — Edwin Rodriguez told the Florida Marlins’ top executives last weekend that he would happily accept whatever job they wanted him to have.

Turns out, they want him to remain the manager.

Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria told the team before its game in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Tuesday night that Rodriguez will stay on as manager through the rest of the 2010 season. The club made the announcement in the second inning of its 7-6 victory over the New York Mets.

“I have to say, I was surprised. I just heard 30 minutes before the game,” Rodriguez said with a grin.

Rodriguez is the first native of Puerto Rico to manage in the major leagues. He was named interim manager last Wednesday when Florida fired Fredi Gonzalez, its all-time winningest manager. Gonzalez was dismissed after going 276-279 in 3 1 /2 seasons.

Rodriguez said he’s looking forward to telling his family and friends in person once he gets over the shock.

“It was a special night for him, and a special night for the team,” said second baseman Dan Uggla, who hit a two-run home run in the third inning and the game-winning single in the ninth. “To get this situation resolved, well, it just feels like a really positive thing.”

With their victory, the Marlins improved to 3-4 under Rodriguez. Minutes before the first pitch, he was embraced warmly by his players in the dugout.

“They were very excited. They hugged me, they talked to me,” Rodriguez said. “All the guys were great.”

Loria said he told Rodriguez just before the game of his decision.

“At the end of the year we’ll re-evaluate things,” Loria said in the press box during the game. “What will always be my first and foremost concern are the players. I thought the continuity ... was the most important thing we could do.”

Before getting summoned to replace Gonzalez, Rodriguez - who said his interview with the Marlins on Saturday was his first formal interview in a 30-year baseball career - was managing Florida’s Class AAA team in New Orleans.

“Edwin deserves a chance to see what he can do,” Loria said. “And I want to give him that chance. I like his levelheadedness and I like his focus on the game.”