DETROIT – It's official: Jim Leyland is no longer the manager of the Detroit Tigers.
In a press conference this morning, Leyland announced he'd be stepping aside as manager of the team. Leyland informed the team of his decision following the loss in Boston at the end of the ALCS on Saturday.
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He said, "When it is time it is time. There is just no more fuel".
Leyland said he talked with upper management weeks ago - telling them that he would not be returning as the manager of the Detroit Tigers.
He informed the players Saturday night in Boston after their loss to the Red Sox. Leyland joked, "I didn't know how to respond when they clapped. But, honestly, you could've heard a pin drop."
He said, "I protect my players to a fault - and I will take that philosophy to my grave. I love each and every one of them."
"On behalf of the entire Detroit Tigers organization, we thank Jim for everything he has done for this franchise over the past eight seasons," said Tigers President, CEO and General Manager, David Dombrowski. "Jim's tenure will be looked back on as one of the great eras in Tigers history; an era that included two World Series appearances, four ALCS appearances in eight seasons, three division titles and two American League pennants. It has truly been an honor to work with one of the great managers in the history of the game."
"We want to thank Jim for everything he has done over the past eight years to steer the ship, and lead our ballclub to some exciting times in this town," stated Tigers' owner Michael Ilitch. "Jim has been instrumental in the franchise's most recent success on and off the field, and we are forever grateful. We wish the best to Jim and his family in the future."
Leyland said he will take another position with the Tigers - but it is still unclear what the position will be. Leyland said, "I want to retire as a Tiger."
Leyland took over as manager in 2006, and led the team to two American League pennants, as well as three divisional titles.