Dave Dombrowski out as Tigers’ president, general manager; replaced by Al Avila

Dave Dombrowski is out as president and general manager of the Detroit Tigers, ending a run of almost 14 seasons in which he helped turn the franchise from an afterthought into one of the American League’s powerhouses.

The Tigers announced on Tuesday that Dombrowski was being released from his contract as EVP of baseball operations and GM, and that he’d be replaced by assistant GM Al Avila.

“I would like to thank Dave Dombrowski for his 14 years of service”, said Ilitch. “I feel this is the right time for the Tigers to move forward under new leadership”.

The team found itself in the position of seller at the non-waiver trade deadline, shipping out ace David Price (Blue Jays), closer Joakim Soria (Pirates) and slugger Yoenis Cespedes (Mets) in a flurry of action.

The team opens a 3-game series against the Royals on Tuesday night as part of a 6 game homestand.

During Dombrowski’s tenure in Detroit, the Tigers claimed four AL Central Division championships and two World Series appearances, in 2006 and 2012. I’m confident that Al will bring his own approach and his own style to the general manager position.

Avila was officially named general manager and executive vice president of baseball operations to replace Dombrowski, who held the official title of president, CEO and general manager. After finishing with one of the worst records in baseball history in 2003, Dombrowski brought in free agents such as Pudge Rodriguez and Magglio Ordonez while also making blockbuster trades to acquire players such as Miguel Cabrera, Austin Jackson, and Max Scherzer. He had previously worked with Dombrowski for nine years with the Florida Marlins.

“The only conversation I had with Dave was basically when he left, we said our goodbyes, and obviously we’re still great friends”. “Really that’s a question more for him”.

“I’m very excited for this opportunity, and honoured and grateful to Mr. Ilitch”, said Avila, the father of Tigers catcher Alex Avila. Maybe nothing. But maybe something.