Detroit Tigers: The Imaginary Conversation before Pelfrey was Signed

Yesterday, Al Avila made one the least interesting free agent signings for the Detroit Tigers in the 2016 Hot Stove season. The boredom of it was quickly overshadowed by the most unexpected signing of Zack Greinke to the D-Backs. Earlier in the day, the D-Back also released pictures of their new uniforms, drawing disappointment from the fans who got what every other team wanted later that evening.

The fantastic events that occurred on Friday made me wonder about the conversation that took place between Al Avila, Brad Ausmus, and Mike Ilitch before signing Mike Pelfrey to the fourth spot in the rotation.

Aug 26, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers manager

Brad Ausmus

(7) in the dugout prior to the game against the Los Angeles Angels at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Ausmus: “Al, when are we planning on filling that fourth spot? Kazmir, Samardzija, Iwakuma, and Gallardo are still available. ”

Avila: “I’ll give Mr. I a call. I’d like someone signed before I head to Tennessee. I gotta stick one to Dave.”

Ausmus: “If he was serious about the money thing, Greinke could fill it. I’d even let him take Ver’s spot.”

Avila: “I’ll see what I can do.”

Avila calls Mr. Ilitch.

Avila: “Good morning, Mr. Ilitch. We still need to sign another pitcher. Were you serious about what you said at the press conference?”

Ilitch: “What press conference?”

Avila: “The one where you said ‘Money was no object.'”

Ilitch: “Yes. I remember now. I was not serious.”

Avila: “How much do I have?”

Ilitch:  “Make it cheap and boring. I don’t want another press conference.”

Avila: “Will do.”

Avila calls Ausmus.

Avila: “Brad, he said, cheap and boring.”

Ausmus: “There’s that tall guy, in Minnesota. Mike or Mark, something like that.”

Avila: “Sounds good.”

Next: Welcome to Detroit, Mike Pelfrey.

Despite the fact that the Pelfrey signing was quickly overshadowed by the D-backs $206 million move, Pelfrey will be a solid addition to the Tigers rotation. His ability to induce ground balls will be managed by the strong defense that regularly makes the highlight reels. There are still bullpen spots to fill and potentially one more outfield spot. The Hot Stove season is still just getting started and Avila could deliver a few more fireworks before January rolls around.