Pierre, Marlins reflect on franchise's history

MIAMI -- The cover of the Marlins' media guide has images of the team's past and present. There is a photo of plush Marlins Park, along with a picture of Charlie Hough tossing out the first pitch in club history, and catcher Ivan Rodriguez tagging out J.T. Snow in the 2003 playoffs.

This year the organization is recognizing the 20th anniversary of the franchise, as well as 10 years since winning the World Series.

Past players were at Marlins Park on Sunday to commemorate the anniversary. The giveaway before Miami faced the Padres in Game 3 of a four-game set was a Juan Pierre bobblehead.

Pierre was a key part of the '03 World Series title team. He is now a veteran presence on this year's youthful club.

"It's been great," Pierre said of the history of the franchise. "They have two World Series in 20 years. Stuff happened quickly. They did it two ways. They had a lot of high-priced guys the first time. The second one, a bunch of misfits won it. I think it's a good organization."

Pierre experienced being with the club at its old park, Sun Life Stadium, which the club shared with the Miami Dolphins and Miami Hurricanes. And he now sees the benefits of playing in flashy Marlins Park.

"It's well needed," Pierre said. "I think now, with the young guys they have in place, there is definitely an upside, and they can build around the stadium. The stadium, it's the Marlins. There is no Dolphins, no Hurricanes. It's the Marlins' stadium."