BOSTON – At long last, Brad Ausmus has a fireman.
It is right-hander Shane Greene, who has emerged as Ausmus’ go-to man in high-leverage situations, regardless of inning.
On Thursday against the Los Angeles Angels, Greene entered the game in the fifth inning with runners on the corners and one out. The Tigers led by one. Four pitches and two outs later, they still led.
“I think (Greene) is capable of doing that from a mental standpoint,” Ausmus said. “Some guys like to know exactly when they’re going to pitch. (Greene) just wants the ball, generally speaking, later in the game.