Detroit Tigers fire Gabe Alvarez as Toledo Mud Hens manager after policy breach
The Detroit Tigers have dismissed Gabe Alvarez as manager of their Triple-A affiliate, the Toledo Mud Hens. The decision follows a violation of club policy, ending his second season with the team. In his place, former minor league slugger Mike Hessman will take over as interim manager.
The Mud Hens currently stand at 17-16, occupying fourth place in the International League West division. Gabe Alvarez had been managing Toledo since 2023. Before coaching, he played 81 games for the Tigers and 11 for the San Diego Padres, who originally drafted him in 1995. His MLB career also included a trade to Detroit, where he later returned as a coach.
Mike Hessman steps into the role with a strong minor league background. He holds the US record for most minor league home runs, with 433. His managerial experience includes two seasons with the Double-A Erie SeaWolves, where he won two Eastern League titles and earned Manager of the Year honours in 2023.
Hessman also briefly played in the majors, appearing in 109 games, including 32 for the New York Mets in 2010. His leadership will now guide Toledo as they aim to improve their position in the division. The Mud Hens continue their season under Hessman’s direction. The team sits just below .500, with room to climb in the standings. Detroit’s decision reflects a shift in leadership as they enforce internal policies.
