DETROIT -- Detroit Tigers controlling owner Christopher Ilitch said 2018 has been "a tremendous year of progress," even if it's not immediately reflected in the team's win-loss record.
Ilitch spoke to reporters from the Tigers' dugout on Tuesday afternoon, shortly after sitting for the annual team photo.
The Tigers announced during last year's photo day that the contract of manager Brad Ausmus would not be renewed.
There was no such drama on Tuesday, as Ilitch echoed many of the same themes he's touched upon in previous media appearances.
Ilitch said general manager Al Avila has his full confidence and the Tigers' plucky comebacks are a credit to manager Ron Gardenhire and his staff.