Detroit Tigers Links: Interest in Ayala, no news on Scherzer extension & Smyly eating lots of Hot & Readys

Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

Detroit Tigers interested in veteran RHP Luis Ayala – James Jahnke, Detroit Free Press

"The Detroit Tigers are among a handful of teams interested in free agent reliever Luis Ayala, cbssports.com’s Jon Heyman tweeted this morning. The Cleveland Indians and Seattle Mariners also are “looking at” Ayala, according to Heyman. Ayala is a 36-year-old right-hander who had one of his best seasons for the Atlanta Braves in 2013, when he went 1-1 with a 2.90 ERA in 37 games. He also pitched two games for the Baltimore Orioles last season."

Max Scherzer: ‘Nothing’s pending’ on contract extension with Detroit Tigers – Anthony Fenech, Free Press

"“Nothing’s pending or anything,” Scherzer said. “But I’m sure conversations are going to pick up, and that’s something that the front office and Scott will pick up at great length.” The right-hander reiterated his desire to stay in Detroit, saying, “This is the place I want to be. I’m comfortable here. I love being part of the Tigers, so hopefully, we can get something done before spring training. Otherwise I’m confident, after the season, we can completely resolve this.” Scherzer said that he won’t negotiate nor talk about his contract status during the season."

Detroit Tigers brass surprised in tour of fire-damaged Fifth Third Ballpark – Peter J. Wallner, MLive

"About 40 percent of the park sustained damage, including the loss of 10 suites, the Whitecaps’ clubhouse and the concourse structure along the first-base side of the ballpark. The Whitecaps have vowed to have it ready for the April 8 home opener."

Detroit Tigers’ Drew Smyly has added 20 pounds in offseason, is excited about return to starting rotation – Chris Iott, MLive

"Smyly, who officially moved into the rotation when the Tigers traded Doug Fister to the Washington Nationals, has spent the offseason in Dallas and has been working out in preparation to return to his role as a starter. “It’s been great,” Smyly said of his offseason during a text exchange with MLive. “I took some time off. Now, I’m working hard to get into top shape. I’ve put on like 20 pounds since the end of the season, so I’m happy about that. I don’t think my preparation is any different though. Right now, I’m getting in the best shape I can and once spring training starts, I’ll condition my arm to get back into the starter workload.” Smyly was listed at 6 feet, 3 inches and 190 pounds in 2013. He said he was at 185 when the playoffs ended and is at 205 right now. Asked whether that was all muscle or all pizza, the low-key lefty gave an honest answer. “I needed a little of both,” he said."