A.J. Hinch Reveals What He Told Tigers After Elimination

A.J. Hinch, the Detroit Tigers manager, revealed the message he conveyed to his team after their elimination from the playoffs. Hinch has missed the postseason in four out of his six seasons managing the Tigers. The Tigers made it to the playoffs in 2024 and 2025, but were officially eliminated on Sunday following a 8-1 loss to the Chicago White Sox.

Amidst a rain-soaked game, Hinch gathered his players for a team meeting ahead of Monday's opener of a three-game series against the Washington Nationals. Hinch, as per his customary practice, discussed the season's events and his expectations for the team. According to Brad Galli of the Brad Galli Show, who attended the press conference, Hinch emphasized that despite the ups and downs, the team fell short by seven days.

The Tigers' performance this season was lackluster, hitting only .241 as a team, which places them 21st in the majors. However, they aren't as far behind as one might think. The Cleveland Indians and Chicago White Sox, the other teams vying for the AL Central, are worse hitters at the plate, ranking 24th at .238 and 26th at .234, respectively.

With the collective bargaining agreement set to expire by December 1st and a lockout expected, Hinch and the Tigers will have to improve in 2027 if there is a season. Given the Tigers' lackluster performance and Hinch's tenure, questions about his future could become a reality if things do not improve in 2027.