The Tigers announced yesterday that they have named Kirk Gibson to a post as special assistant to general manager Al Avila. He will continue to cover the team as an analyst as well.
Gibson, now 61, will re-join the organization that originally drafted him in the first round back in 1978. He went on to turn in 17 seasons in the majors, including a dozen years in Detroit (where he began and ended his MLB career). Thereafter, Gibson served as a big league coach (including with the Tigers) and eventually became the manager of the Diamondbacks.
Everything changed with a diagnosis of Parkinson’s in 2015, but Gibson has nevertheless remained active, offering a softened version of his famously intense persona. It’s certainly good to see that he’s capable of adding to his plate. In his new role with the Tigers’ org, per the announcement, Gibson “will assist in on-field duties at both the Major League and Minor League levels, be involved in all personnel meetings, travel throughout the Minor League system and participate in community relations.”
Good. Avila could use all the help he can get.
Always one of my favorites. Bought a bat at a charity function that he used in 1988. Still sits beside my bed. Wish him the best.
What does you buying a bat he used have to do with the article? Is the article about you or him?
You have been donged
It was an anecdote relevant to the person. I found fox471’s story about the bat more interesting than 90 percent of the other comments on mlbtr.
Support our wounded warriors.
Fantastic
Anybody else just waiting for Harper to sign with the Phillies today? A tweet alluded to it happening, so it must be true
I remember when Gibby alluded to signing with the Phillies in ‘88 via Tweet.
I think Maddux tweeted he was signing with Yankees on his way to Atlanta
Boy, it must be nice to be able to retire and get a 6 figure job where you send a few emails once a week.
It must be nice to have a life so devoid of meaning that you get worked up about stuff like this.
LOL. So much for a straight observation. Sounds like you’re more worked up about my comment then I am about this story! Keep on trucking I suppose.
I was going to ask if he can do much physically with Parkinson’s. This will probably be more of a “community outreach” type of position or very light “on-field duties” like encouraging players/giving high fives, rather than swinging a bat or something too physical.
Why would an assistant GM do anything physical like swinging a bat?
Gibby has been doing TV for the Tigers for several years. He’s doing good considering.
I cant believe what I just saw
I wonder if his duties will include cracking skulls in the press box when the broadcasting team starts fighting with each other?
He IS part of the broadcast team.
“And look who’s coming up. All year long, they looked to him (Kirk Gibson) to light the fire. All year long, he answered the demand; until he was physically unable to start tonight with two bad legs, a left hamstring, and a swollen right knee. And with two out, you talk about a roll of the dice. This is it!”
– Vin Scully
I still get goosebumps watching that at bat. I remember running through the house telling my family what just happened. It was great.
assistant regional manager*
In an offseason that has been so improbable, the impossible has happened!
If I remember right Gibby’s last year in Detroit he was underperforming. So he retired mid-season. I believe he said because he felt like he wasn’t earning what he was being paid.
His last game was in August. He was “underperforming” while hitting .260
Today that would earn him a $125M contract.
Trying to understand what he is saying is tough. Sounds like he has had quite a few brain operations. Gibson mumbles like sling blade.
He has Parkinsons, A-hole.
Careful now. You call out jerks and someone might report you and your comment will be removed. I agree with your post but it happened to me. Just sayin.
Mike Ilitch would be proud.
His commentary as the colorman on the TV broadcasts is both insightful and entertaining. Glad he is going to maintain that gig as well.
I’ve got to believe he’ll start reducing that workload over the next couple of seasons.
During a broadcast of a lopsided game, Gibby went into the rightfield stands and was talking with the crowd. They loved it.
Any other broadcasters that work for the team directly?
Jack Morris splits games with Gibson.
Perhaps he can fine tune the young outfielders. No more trying to throw to home with no chance to get the runner. Then the hitter advances to 2nd base on the throw. Hitting the cutoff man, taking better routes(getting better jumps).
I wish he could’ve managed instead of Brad. I think he would’ve brought a fire this team lacked for a long time. I think he can help some of these younger players coming in
Tigers rebuild looks great with 500 likely in 2030