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Tigers seeking lift with Aybar’s dynamic game
- Updated: August 17, 2016
DETROIT — The last time Justin Verlander talked with Erick Aybar, his message was caught on camera. It was Verlander gesturing to his back to Aybar from the other dugout to let him know where he was going to get hit with a pitch after bunting on him with a no-hitter ongoing.
That was five years ago, when Aybar was a shortstop for the Angels. He’s with the Tigers now, having been acquired from the Braves on Tuesday for some infield depth. And as far as Verlander is concerned, that 2011 game is a distant memory, even if he remembers it.
“I haven’t hit him like I said I would,” Verlander said with a smile after Tuesday night’s 6-1 loss to the Royals. “At least that’s a good thing, for when he gets in the clubhouse. Hey, water under the bridge, I’m sure, for both of us. It’s the nature of the game.”
It’s also an example of Aybar’s game, and the energy the Tigers are hoping he can bring. While manager Brad Ausmus and players alike were torn about losing Mike Aviles from the clubhouse, they were also hopeful Aybar can provide a presence to a team depleted by injuries.
“He could,” Ausmus said. “He’s that type of player, and has been that type of player …
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