Jim Leyland Resigns as Tigers Manager

Detroit Tigers manager, Jim Leyland, steps down and will not return for a ninth season. Leyland led the Tigers to two pennants during his eight seasons. He announced his departure during a Monday press conference stating, "I'm going to be 69 years old. I'm not ashamed of that. I'm proud of it. The fuel's getting a little low."

Although Leyland will be stepping down as Tiger's manager, he will continue to with the Detroit club. It is not yet determined what his new position will be in the Tiger's franchise.

Leyland boasted a 700-597 record with the Detroit Tigers with 1,769 wins during his 22 year as a Tiger. Before coming to Detroit, He won the 1997 World Series with the Florida Marlins. In 1990-1992, he led three consecutive NL East titles with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Tigers won 93 games this season and a third American League Central title. Leyland replaced Alan Trammell in 2005 as the Tiger's manager after a terrible 2003 season where they lost an American League record of 119 games. Under Leyland, the Tigers began a slow but steady rise back from the bottom.

"If I went out tomorrow, I wouldn't care how any of you guys felt, I would feel like I went out on top," he said in March. "I was a backup Double A catcher who hit .222. I've managed in the big leagues 22 years, with a world title, division titles, American League championships. Now, what the hell?" --- USA Today.

Leyland stepping down marks five managerial positions following suit. The Tigers, Chicago Cubs, Seattle Mariners, Washington Nationals and Cincinnati Reds are all changing managers.

Leyland stated previously during the spring he had no intention of retiring. But Monday's announcement verified his intention to step down at least as team manager. Assuring everyone he would still be with the franchise.

"I want to retire a Tiger," Leyland said. "So long. It's not goodbye. And from the bottom of my heart thank you for having me."