|
Dave Dombrowski, Jim Leyland to stayEmailPrintComments163Associated Press
DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers are keeping manager Jim Leyland and general manager Dave Dombrowski under contract beyond this year.
The team announced Monday that Dombrowski has agreed to a four-year extension and Leyland is being retained through the 2012 season. Both were in the last year of their deals.
Dombrowski
Leyland
"Dave has built a solid foundation for this organization and assembled competitive teams that give us a chance to win year in and year out. We have a lot of confidence in his continued leadership of the Detroit Tigers," owner Mike Ilitch said. "I know Jim shares our desire to deliver a winner. We're pleased to have him continue leading the Detroit Tigers on the field."
The announcement came on an off-day for the Tigers as they prepare for probably their biggest series of the season so far. Detroit begins a three-game set at Cleveland on Tuesday night. The Tigers lead the second-place Indians by four games in the AL Central.
Detroit hasn't won a division title since 1987 and hasn't made the postseason since 2006, when the Tigers went to the World Series as a wild card in Leyland's first year.
"I want to thank Mr. Ilitch and Dave Dombrowski for the support and confidence they have shown in me and I look forward to managing the Detroit Tigers in 2012," Leyland said. "Also, my many thanks go out to generations of Tigers fans who have supported the Tigers through the good times as well as the tough times."
Dombrowski is also the team president and CEO. He was hired by the Tigers shortly after the 2001 season.
"I am grateful for the continued opportunity Mr. Ilitch has given me to run this franchise, and I am equally appreciative of the unwavering support he has demonstrated the past 10 seasons in our efforts to bring a world championship back to Detroit," Dombrowski said.
After Detroit went 81-81 in 2010, Dombrowski added designated hitter Victor Martinez, pitcher Brad Penny and reliever Joaquin Benoit during the offseason. Martinez leads the team with a .323 average.
More recently, Dombrowski acquired third baseman Wilson Betemit, starter Doug Fister and reliever David Pauley before the trade deadline in an attempt to shore up the roster for the stretch drive.
The Tigers also extended the contracts of assistant general manager Al Avila, vice president for amateur scouting David Chadd, vice president for player personnel Scott Reid and baseball legal counsel John Westhoff.
Duane McLean was promoted to executive vice president for business operations.
_________________
“Be Who You Are and Say What You Feel Because Those Who Mind Don't Matter and Those Who Matter Don't Mind.” ~ Dr. Suess
Nice Guys Finish Last
Thank you,and have a nice day !
|
Login
Register
FAQ
Search
