DETROIT -- Dont expect Detroit Tigers manager Jim Leyland to make any rah-rah speeches or smash any coolers even though his team trails 2-0 in the World Series.
Even-keeled as ever, Leyland showed no signs of panic as he addressed the media on Friday afternoon and even made a few jokes as he described how he planned to address his charges.
Leyland didnt require his players to workout at Comerica Park on Friday, though many did, after the team arrived home after 6 a.m. from San Francisco. Leyland said he wants to keep the approach simple before the World Series resumes with Game 3 at 5:07 p.m. on Saturday night. Detroit sends Anibal Sanchez to the mound to face the Giants and Ryan Vogelsong.
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The way I look at it, were two games back with give to play, Leyland said. But were playing the team we need to catch, and I think thats the best way to approach it.
Most analysts predicted the Tigers --- whose 133.475 million payroll ranked third in the majors --- to cruise to an American League Central crown. But with 16 games left on the schedule, they trailed the Chicago White Sox by three games. The Tigers also spent only 34 days either tied or alone in first place. But even as they struggled, Leylands players said he never wavered and they dont expect him to begin now.
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Skip is not the one thats going to hold a meeting or a big speech or anything like that, catcher Alex Avila said. Hes extremely honest, and as players you appreciate that type of honesty. He treats us like professionals and grown men, knowing we can get the job done.
San Francisco Giants
So how does Leyland expect his players to handle their current task of rallying from a two-game deficit?
Simple: concentrate and relax.
You have to have that combination in situations like this, Leyland said. There is a lot of pressure, but you just have to learn to embrace it. I think thats the most important thing.
Dan Hayes is the White Sox Insider for CSNChicago.com