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Avila Defends Decision To Bring Back Ausmus Despite Rough Season

CBS DETROIT (WWJ) -- The Detroit Tigers have named their manager for 2016 -- they're going to stick with Brad Ausmus.

General Manager Al Avila made the announcement Saturday afternoon before a matchup with the Minnesota Twins. Avila said he understood Ausmus was dealing with severe roster limitations as the Tigers went "first-to-worst" in 2015 after four straight American League Central Division titles.

The news was announced Saturday in the wake of recent reports that Ausmus was going to be fired after the season was over.

"I don't know that I was expecting anything either way," Ausmus said. "When the report came out that I was being fired, after talking to Al I felt like it didn't come from the baseball operations so I don't know where it came from -- at this point it doesn't matter.

"Al was very open and honest with me," Ausmus added.

Ausmus did say that rumors made things a little tough at times this season.

"Initially when the story breaks it's a little tough, but I'll be honest with you, it's been business as usual -- we have prepared exactly the same way," Ausmus said. "I can't control what's written. After talking to Al about it, he said it didn't come from them. I knew that the baseball operations people, Al, and Mr. Ilitch would make the decision and I just continued to do my job."

Avila said he understood Ausmus was dealing with roster limitations as the season progressed, notably with the pitching staff. The team was also without stars Miguel Cabera and Justin Verlander for portions of the season.

"This team -- as you've noticed -- has not given up, they've played hard, they're continuing to try to win every game that they can," Avila said. "This team from Day One coming out of Spring Training has faced a lot of adversity, a lot of injuries -- it's been a very tough season, yet this team has not given up."

Avila told reporters that Ausmus' impact on the development of the team's younger players was a factor in the decision.

"I believe that Brad has the talent, the know-how to lead and mentor the young players that are on this team -- they've shown great improvement," Avila said.

Not everything has been smooth sailing for the Tigers younger players this season, however. Shortstop Jose Iglesias and third baseman Nick Castellanos have combined for 20 errors this season.

"I know we've made some mistakes in the field, but some of those mistakes come when you have young players," Avila said. "Every team has that -- the thing is, what do you do about that?"

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