Ex-Marlins star Jeff Conine joins FIU baseball staff

MIAMI (AP) — Jeff Conine was hired Friday as the new associate head coach at FIU, where the former All-Star and two-time World Series winner will oversee hitting and player development.

Conine spent parts of 17 seasons with six major league clubs, eight of them with the then-Florida Marlins. He was a two-time All-Star selection and was with the Marlins for both of their World Series titles in 1997 and 2003.

“Jeff brings a wealth of knowledge of what it takes to be a champion. He’s a two-time World Series champion who believes in simplicity and performance,” FIU coach Mervyl Melendez said. “Our hitters will gain a vast knowledge of what it takes to compete day in and day out. He’s a great addition to our staff.”

Conine worked in the Marlins’ front office for nearly a decade after his playing days and was a guest instructor at Baltimore Orioles’ spring training in 2020. His son, Griffin Conine, is a top prospect in the Marlins’ organization.

“I’m incredibly excited to be able to work with the talented student-athletes at FIU. Being a South Floridian, it’s a blessing to have the chance to work at a great program and University in my own backyard,” Conine said. “I’m very appreciative for the opportunity and look forward to our bright future at FIU.”

Conine batted .285 in his career with 214 home runs and 1,071 RBIs. He went 4 for 4 in the Marlins’ first game in 1993, was selected for the All-Star Game in each of the next two years and was the All-Star MVP in 1995.