Sports

Jim Leyland: 'It's Been A Thrill'

Leyland is stepping down as manager of the Detroit Tigers, but says he will stay with the organization in a yet-to-be-determined role.

Jim Leyland said his plans to step down as manager of the Detroit Tigers have been in the works since September.

"I knew I was getting low on fuel, and I didn't think it would be fair to the team or the organization to continue as manager," Leyland said this morning at a press conference at Comerica Park.

He said only himself and two members of upper management knew, and that he told the team on Saturday after the Tigers' loss to the Boston Red Sox.

Leyland said he is not fully retiring and will be staying with the Tigers in a yet-to-be-determined role.

"I'm not totally retiring today," he said. "I'm just not going to be in the dugout. I want to retire a Tiger."

He got emotional while thanking Tigers staff, and assured fans the team and the organization were in good hands.

"It's been a thrill," he said. "Thank you for having me."

What do you think about Leyland's decision to step down?


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