Something stood out to me at the press conference introducing Rex and has stuck with me ever since. A reporter asked Pegula, Brandon and Whaley if they were surprised by Marrone's opt out. Pegula jumped in immediately, barely letting the reporter finish his question, and said (I forget the exact quote): "Absolutely."
His tone, brevity and rapid response made me think, OK, that's the company line and the head guy in charge will naturally leap at the chance to get it out there.
I've been a part of enough organizations that have had high-ranking officials step down "on their own" when really they're told behind the scenes "Yeah, listen, you need to take your money and GTFO."
We have no way of knowing if that was the case here, and maybe never will, but it wouldnt surprise me in the least.