SAN DIEGO (AP) — Brad Ausmus changed his mind about pinch-hitting for Mikie Mahtook, and the young center fielder came through to help the Detroit Tigers end their long losing streak.
Mahtook drove in three runs including a tiebreaking two-run single in the ninth inning and the Tigers snapped an eight-game skid with a 7-5 win over the San Diego Padres on Sunday.
Amid rumors that Ausmus may be fired had the Tigers extended their streak, Ausmus stuck with Mahtook against Padres closer Brandon Maurer (0-4).
“We actually had some discussions about pinch-hitting for him,” Ausmus said.