Detroit Tigers Links 10/30/13: Hunter, Ausmus, and AL Central Pitching

Oct 16, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers right fielder

(48) scores against the Boston Red Sox during the second inning in game four of the American League Championship Series baseball game at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Hunter, teammates always making impact off field – Jason Beck – Tigers.com

"When Hunter signed with the Tigers a year ago, he talked about wanting to make an impact in the community. Now he’s going out of his way — literally — to help a group of local kids enjoy the holiday season.When the Tigers hold their annual Holiday Giving Party next month, welcoming area foster kids and families in need for dinner at the Tiger Club, they’ll have a special guest. Hunter will make the trip back to Detroit to be on hand. He’s not only putting his presence behind it, he’s providing support, too, for the dinner as well as the shopping spree for the kids afterwards."

Andy Dirks keeps No. 12, but will he keep his job with Detroit Tigers? – John Lowe – Free Press

"It’s logical to think that the Tigers are looking for a prominent left-handed hitter for their lineup to help offset the departure of first baseman Prince Fielder. Three such left-handed hitters who are free agents would fit as a left fielder for the Tigers: Shin-Soo Choo, Curtis Granderson and Carlos Beltran."

Twins, Royals pay different prices to catch Detroit Tigers’ pitching staff – John Lowe – Free Press

"The Twins are far more desperate than the Royals for pitching. The Royals led the league in ERA this season, while the Twins finished last in the AL in quality starts for the second straight season — and not coincidentally lost 96 games for the second straight season. But that doesn’t fully explain the $4 million gap between the Nolasco and Vargas."

Kinsler: ‘It’s a really cool opportunity’ – Dana Wakiji – Fox Sports Detroit

"Kinsler said he has already spoken to new Tigers manager Brad Ausmus, although he doesn’t know him well.“I know what he represents as far as the way he played the game,” Kinsler said. “Catchers have a reputation of becoming great managers, so I’m looking forward to it.“It’s kind of unique in that it’s our first years there — it’s his first year and also mine –so we’re both going to be into a little bit of a new environment. It’s exciting.”"