The Detroit Tigers have decided to part ways with pitching Coach Chris Bosio. General manager Al Avila informed Jerry Crasnick of ESPN on Wednesday that Bosio was dismissed for making ‘insensitive comments’ towards a team staff member.
Avila announced that bullpen coach Rick Anderson will take over Bosio’s role. AJ Sager, the Tigers’ roving pitching instructor, will fill in as the bullpen coach until Jeff Pico, the Triple-A pitching coach, assumes the position on Ron Gardenhire’s staff.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the team emphasized its high standards for employee conduct both on and off the field and stated that Bosio’s behavior was not tolerated.
Avila stated that he became aware of Bosio’s inappropriate remarks on Tuesday, prompting an investigation by the team, followed by discussions with the parties involved, leading to the decision to terminate Bosio’s contract.
Avila mentioned that Bosio’s comments breached team policies and contract guidelines. Despite the situation, Avila acknowledged Bosio’s positive contributions as a pitching coach for the Tigers.
Avila stated, “He was a good pitching coach.”
Tigers right-hander Alex Wilson commented that he and his teammates had heard about the incident that occurred.
“We regret the impact it had on everyone. It’s a somber day for us. However, we will look ahead and aim to grow stronger from this experience,” Wilson expressed.
Bosio served as Detroit’s pitching coach in his first season after a six-year tenure in the same role with the Chicago Cubs. Bosio’s contract with the Cubs was not renewed last season, leading to his move to Detroit, with Jim Hickey taking over his position in Chicago.
