Tigers Extend GM Al Avila Amidst Rebuild

The Detroit Tigers have made it clear who they are trusting to finish their rebuild, as Anthony Fenech of the Detroit Free Press reported on Friday that the club has given general manager Al Avila to a multi-year contract extension.

“It’s clear to anyone that follows Tigers baseball that our organization is undergoing a significant transformation,” Detroit Tigers owner Christopher Ilitch said in a news release. “I’ve been impressed with Al’s leadership and focus, and the steadfast way he has led our baseball operations since becoming general manager.

"Al has methodically implemented his plan, and the execution of that plan has demonstrated progress and results in scouting, drafting, player development and analytics. I am especially pleased with the progress we have made in securing a stable of talented prospects which bodes well for our future. Al has a proven track record in this game, and his nearly three decades of experience is paying dividends in this rebuilding phase.”

The terms of the deal are not yet known, but Avila's contract was set to expire following the 2020 season. With this extension, they have the trust in Avila to complete this rebuild.

Detroit's farm system has improved under Avila's tutelage, who has traded off several big pieces in recent years to acquire young assets. The Tigers still have a ways to go, but their young pitching is coming up the pipeline and they clearly want Avila on board to finish the job.