DETROIT -- The Tigers began their nine-game homestand just over a week ago with speculation swirling around Brad Ausmus' managerial future. As they wrapped up the homestand Wednesday, general manager Al Avila spoke up in support of Ausmus.
Speaking with Jim Duquette and Mike Ferrin on MLB Network Radio, Avila said Ausmus is part of the solution, not the problem.
"I understand you can do all you can, and if things don't work out, at the end of the day you still might have to make a change just for the sake of change," Avila said. "But for me, I'm telling you right now, Brad is one of the smartest guys that you're going to find in baseball.