Al Avila: Brad Ausmus Will Return To Manage Tigers In 2016
By Dan Jenkins
@DanTJenkins
So much for the early report about manager Brad Ausmus' fate in the Motor City.
General Manager Al Avila told reporters before Saturday's game that Ausmus will return to manage the team in 2016.
Avila issued the following statement on the situation:
"For the past two months there has been an on-going evaluation process of our baseball operations. Most notably at the Major League level with our players, the manager and the coaching staff. On Friday afternoon, I met with manager Brad Ausmus and during our discussion I told him I wanted him to continue as manager of the Tigers in 2016. Brad said he wanted to continue managing the Tigers. It is my belief, and our collective belief within our baseball operations department, that Brad is the right manager for this team given where the team is, at this point in time, and for us to achieve our goals in 2016."
Avila added, "Collectively our goal is to bring a World Championship to Tigers fans who support this team night in and night out. We are working together every day to be the best we can today, and rest assured we will make the necessary adjustments needed along the way."
WDIV reported on September 11 that inside sources with the organization indicated Ausmus would not return for 2016.
The rest of the 2015 coaching staff will also be retained.
In just under two seasons with the Tigers, Ausmus has totaled a 162-153 record with one American League Central Division Championship in 2014.
However, the team took a step back this season and could finish in last place for the first time since 2008.
