Josh Booty, a former first round pick, star high school quarterback, and opening day third baseman has been given a release from his contract. Booty, signed a lucrative contract including a $1.6 million signing bonus. But the contract explicitly stated that Booty may not play football. After a failing minor league career, the Marlins have released Booty from his contract so he can play football at LSU. The only condition is that the Marlins own his right, should he choose to play baseball in the future.

In a first validation of John Henry’s committment to succeed, the Marlins signed Cliff Floyd to a 4 year $19 milllion contract. Floyd was the team’s best player last year and many believe he will develop into a superstar. Floyd becomes the second highest paid Marlin (second to Alex Fernandez). Floyd will earn $2.5 million this season, $4.5 million in 2000, $5.5 million in 2001 and $6.5 million in 2002.