Jim Leyland To Return To Detroit Tigers in 2013?

Oct 27, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers manager Jim Leyland (10) watches from the dugout during game three of the 2012 World Series against the San Francisco Giants at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Now that the World Series is over we turn our attention to Jim Leyland watch 2012. Much ado was made this season about his one-year contract and his lack of in-season extension, but Dave Dombrowski announced to the world that Leyland was welcome back if he wished to return after the Tigers swept the New York Yankees in the ALCS last week.

Following the Game Four loss to the San Francisco Giants in the World Series, Drew Sharp posted a Tweet about Leyland’s expected return to the team:

So it sounds like we’ll be hearing the details of an extension — probably another one-year gig — very shortly.

For all of the questions and second guesses about his lineups, which he usually deserves, Leyland seems to be well respected by his peers and folks around baseball. He’s not an ideal tactical manager, that’s for sure, but he handles his players well and they seem to enjoy playing for him.

Until I see a majority of managers fill out sensible lineups and make wise bullpen decisions, I’ll be content with the guy that makes the same mistakes as everyone else while keeping his clubhouse happy and under control.