The Detroit Tigers made an expected move at an unexpected time on Friday. After calling in local media, and comments from owner Chris Ilitch to the effect that he was committed to owning the Tigers long-term, General Manager Al Avila announced that the organization would not offer manager Brad Ausmus a new contract.
The announcement was unusual in that there is still over a week left in the season. More unusual was the fact that Ausmus will manage out the season. But in his comments afterwards, Ausmus made it clear that there was no animosity over the decision.