The Detroit Tigers are having an impressive season. Even after a 4-1 loss to the Minnesota Twins on Friday, they still hold the best record in the American League at 51-32. Led by ace Tarik Skubal and an offense ranked fifth in runs per game, they also boast a commanding 9.5-game lead over the Cleveland Guardians atop the AL Central.
With momentum building for what could be their first consecutive postseason berths since their four-year run from 2011 to 2014, manager A.J. Hinch delivered a strong message to his players—a reminder to stay grounded and hungry as they head into the second half of the season.
A.J. Hinch Looks to Keep Tigers Motivated Entering Second Half
After Friday’s game, Tigers manager A.J. Hinch spoke to reporters about the team’s strong first half. While he praised their performance so far, he emphasized that their current success doesn’t guarantee anything, with plenty of baseball still ahead.
“We know we have a good team and we’ve played a lot of quality baseball,” Hinch said, per The Detroit Free Press’s Evan Petzold. “But where that ultimately leads takes a lot more work. Some of us have been through this grind before, and 81 games doesn’t get you to the finish line. We’re trying to keep our guys focused on what it really takes to reach the next level. There are no midseason titles or division crowns handed out halfway through. Whether I believe this team is special or not, we have to keep improving and keep giving the fans something to rally around.”
Hinch’s reminder comes with a cautionary example across the field. The Minnesota Twins seemed like postseason locks last year with a 70-53 record in mid-August, only to collapse down the stretch and miss the playoffs—going 12-27 in their final 39 games. Ironically, the Tigers were one of the teams that benefited. It’s a clear warning of how fast things can turn.
Still, Hinch believes in the group he has. He sees something unique about this Tigers squad and believes they can build on their first-half success if they stay focused.
“I love our team,” Hinch added. “I love who these guys are, how they prepare, and how they play. But I also know they can’t get comfortable. It’s my job to remind them this is only the midpoint. I love where we are—but I want us to keep getting better.”
