Ausmus Will Manage Tigers in 2016

After much speculation regarding his job status, new Detroit Tigers General Manager Al Avila announced on Saturday that the team would be retaining Brad Ausmus for the 2016 season.

The announcement was made prior to Saturday's game against Minnesota.

The move must come as a shock to many, as much of the local and even national narrative was that Ausmus would be fired and replaced at season's end by anybody from Manny Acta, Ron Gardenhire or even Bud Black.

The team is 72-81 as of this writing and one game away from being eliminated from playoff contention as a wild card. Kansas City had clinched the AL Central earlier this week.

Ausmus led the Tigers to the playoffs in his first year as manager. The Tigers were swept in round one against the Baltimore Orioles that year. His career managerial record as of this writing is 162-153.

According to MLB.com's Jason Beck, the decision came from Avila with support from owner Mike Ilitch, who named Avila as his GM in August.

"I know where the criticism is. My thing is I believe that Brad has the talent, the know-how to lead and mentor the young players that are on this team," Avila said.

What do you think about the decision? Let us know in the comments.