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DETROIT -- As Christopher Illitch quotes the late, great George Kell: "it's actually a wonderful day for a ball game," with the luncheon taking place inside the Marriott downtown early Wednesday afternoon on behalf of the Tigers, who are concluding their series later in the evening against the New York Yankees at Comerica Park, in which they suffered an blowout Tuesday night by the score of 11-0. Still, the Tigers will always strive because the people will always fans, who will always believe in the Detroit Tigers; as the video said, it's about the name on the back but about the name.

"I love our team, I do. We have an tremendous coaching staff," said Tigers manager Jim Leyland, aka "The Skipper". "I think this team, really, has an chance to be a special team. But there are no slam dunks. It is all about the competition. We're still feeling some ways, but it should be a team that wins."

And speaking of wins, Tigers owner and general manager David Dombrowski likes to "win a lot of games", and though his team lost the other evening, he remains confident that they've improved this season. "One thing in our organization," he responds, "we have some of the most talented players in our baseball club." Though it is still a good day for a ball game, Dombrowski also explained what Comerica Park can offer outside the diamond field: the ferris wheel, the recent Blue Light Jungle sports bar, and having hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza, chips and pop for five dollars.

"In today's world," he states, "we're all aware of what's taking place. So, we appreciate the support but we also we ask for your patience when we lose a tough game. We work to provide an experience to get away and have fun. And when you look at the entertainment that is provided from the field, it is really an alternative place to come. There's a value coming out [to Comerica Park]. We all need an escapism. In addition, you can come and see a good game."

The Tigers will remain at home until early next week when beginning their series against Cleveland over the weekend after the bye on Thursday, and then against Minnesota on Monday and Tuesday.

Leyland compares competition in sports with the Great Recession: for it is about toughening it up when the odds are against you; perserving and keeping going despite being hit several times -- not just surviving to get by but thriving. "I look forward to the continual support. It is a team full of outstanding character. I think you'll be proud of this team come October. My hat's off to those fighting the economic crisis. It is all about the competition, so my hat's off to you. Thank you very much," he continues.

 

PHOTO BY JASON RZUCIDLO / ©AMERICAJR.com

Detroit Tigers General Manager David Dombrowski.

 

PHOTO BY JASON RZUCIDLO / ©AMERICAJR.com

Jim Leyland said: "I love our team, I do. We have an tremendous coaching staff".

 

PHOTO BY JASON RZUCIDLO / ©AMERICAJR.com

Leyland talked about the current status of the team and his hopes for moving on to the playoffs.

 

PHOTO BY JASON RZUCIDLO / ©AMERICAJR.com

Leyland said the Tigers is a great family value with $5 tickets.

 

PHOTO BY JASON RZUCIDLO / ©AMERICAJR.com

Leyland answers questions from the audience.

 

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