DETROIT — The repeated loss of Brad Ausmus’ cell reception during the Tigers’ conference call may have been an inconvenience but exercising his 2017 option was no hassle for general manager Al Avila. Ausmus, having been secured for the next season, has talked to his coaching staff, but Avila has not, and retention decisions have yet to be made.
During Wednesday’s conference, Avila addressed various sticking points of the season, why he opted to keep Ausmus, and the importance of fixing the baserunning and defensive issues that continue to plague the team.
“Just cutting ties because you didn't get into the postseason doesn't make the team better, and doesn’t mean that’s the right decision,” Avila said, addressing why he retained Ausmus, with the blessing of owner Mike Ilitch.