Detroit — It had to happen, not just because the Tigers were losing too many games and too many players, and wasting too much time. GM Al Avila was fired because he lost the trust and patience of fans, media and, most importantly, the owner.
It wasn’t necessarily a bold move by Chris Ilitch Wednesday, or even a particularly tough one, personal relationships aside. The situation grew more toxic by the day, as virtually every one of Avila’s big moves flopped. For those who say Ilitch isn’t as invested or demanding as his dad was, this was the appropriate response.