Tension Between Leyland and Dombrowski?

by Ian Casselberry on Dec 4, 2008 9:30 PM EST in Detroit Tigers News

ESPN's Buster Olney says there's tension brewing at Comerica Park between Jim Leyland and Dave Dombrowski:

• Folks who know both GM Dave Dombrowski and manager Jim Leyland believe there is serious tension between the two that could manifest itself in some way if the Tigers get off to a poor start in 2009.

No elaboration from there, but I suppose the point is clear. It certainly seemed like there might be some hard feelings between the two when Leyland didn't get a contract extension after the season. And apparently, there hasn't been much of a change since October. The question is, have things gotten worse?

Is Leyland unhappy with the players his general manager provided in 2008? Does Dombrowski think his manager should've done a better job with what he was given? Are they in sync on the Tigers' off-season plans?

Maybe the Winter Meetings will give us an idea of whether or not there's a united front between field manager and executive. Otherwise, maybe we'll notice be a ticking sound that gets louder and louder throughout the beginning of next season if the Tigers don't play well.

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Comments

This doesn't surprise me.

I have been wondering about this. I think the lack of an extension is means for a cover if we get off to another horrible start-JL could be gone by May.

I expect a far more intense spring training this time around.

by rook34 on Dec 5, 2008 12:45 AM EST reply actions

Cardinal Rule

A friend of mine brought out an important point in firing a manager/coach—never do it unless you’ve got someone better in line to take the job. Otherwise, you’re often stuck with an ineffective/uncertain interim, or a poor selection, especially if the firing takes place mid-season. I would hope the Tigers smart enough not to fire JL midseason.

by -Jen on Dec 5, 2008 2:11 PM EST reply actions