Ozzie Guillen: Love Him or Hate Him?

Sure, there are a few characters manning the benches in the majors. Pinella and Dusty come to mind, maybe a few others. But, generally speaking, the modern manager takes a backseat to the players and the action on the field.

Perhaps that's a good thing. But for all the arms-crossed-staring-out-at-the-diamond managers, I think it's good for the game to have at least a few fiery guys. Which brings us to Chicago White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen.

I think it would be safe to say that there is no current big-league skipper who is more polarizing than Ozzie. Some fans and media would go to bat for him no matter what. Others can't stand the guy. So, the question is for you LCG readers and fans. Do you love Ozzie or hate him?

As a National League follower, I only get to see and hear Guillen...well, seemingly about every month he says something "controversial." Most recently, it's his calling out of umpire Phil Cuzzi who Ozzie believes is out to get him. Here's my take for anyone who cares: I like the guy.

Now, do you need a manager who's so outspoken he makes headlines on a consistent basis throughout the season? Of course not. Here's what I want in a manager.

1. Someone who wins: Ozzie's gone 349-307 (thanks, Anon) in a little over four seasons at the helm in Chi-town. He's had one losing season and has brought a world championship to the South Side.

2. Someone who motivates players: For all the chatter about his antics, the bottom line is whether Ozzie's guys play for him. While I'm sure he has clashed with more than a few in his tenure, I would tend to argue that they do.

3. Someone who knows the game: I don't mind outspoken managers/coaches. It's surely better than listening to the post-game press conferences of Zeke and Willie. Outspoken idiots are the ones I have issues with. Again, my feeling about Guillen has always been that he knows the game.

4. Don't B.S. Me: If the team is playing like crap, don't tell me they're not. I watch the games, don't sugar coat it or try to convince me I'm seeing something different. This is where Ozzie scores big points with me.

Too often it seems, today's managers and coaches are afraid to question...afraid to criticize...afraid to speak. And when they do open their mouths, everything is measured, scripted and oozing with political correctness. Not Ozzie. He doesn't like an ump? He says it. He agrees with Gary Sheffield that Latino players are "easier to control," he says it. His team isn't performing, he says it. And, outside of a few examples, I find myself agreeing with what comes out of his mouth.

Ultimately, the real concern for fans is whether all his chatter has a negative effect on the team. My inclination would be to say no. By now, his guys know him and they probably even block most of it out.

But what do I know? Tell me what you think. Ozzie Guillen: love him or hate him?