The 2024 Detroit Tigers and Leadership

Lessons in leadership and life can be found in many areas. Much of my life has centered around sports and right now there is an air of excitement in Michigan about the resurgence of the Detroit Tigers. As the Tigers were wrapping up the American League Wild Card round, I wondered how this team found success despite insurmountable odds. Here are three key leadership principles I identified while observing the 2024 Detroit Tigers. ??

1. Removing Underperformers

One of the most impactful decisions Manager A.J. Hinch made was to remove veteran shortstop Javy Báez from the roster. Báez, a high-profile player, struggled significantly over two seasons, particularly in 2024 while dealing with injury. Hinch and the organization ultimately decided to shut him down on August 10th for the remainder of the season. At that point, the Tigers had just a 0.2% chance of making the playoffs. However, after Báez’s departure, the team posted the best record in baseball, going 31-14 down the stretch and making the playoffs, ultimately sweeping the Houston Astros in the AL Wild Card Round. Other players stepped up in Báez’s absence, making significant progress and contributing to the team’s success. Underperformers negatively impact the culture and performance of those around them. Simply moving on from them can help elevate the entire team.

2. Putting People in the Best Position to Succeed

Hinch excels at maximizing his players’ potential by putting them in roles where they can thrive. For example, during a critical game, Hinch brought in Andy Ibá?ez to face Houston’s strong left-handed pitcher Josh Hader in the 8th inning with two outs. In 2024, Ibá?ez hit just .161 against right-handed pitchers but batted .357 against lefties. With two outs and the bases loaded, Ibá?ez hit a triple down the left field line, scoring three runs and putting the Tigers ahead 5-2. By understanding his players’ strengths, Hinch positioned the team to succeed against the odds. His players buy into his vision because they believe he understands where each person can thrive. Often, leaders place employees in roles without fully understanding their strengths and weaknesses, making success harder to achieve and leading to frustration, poor performance, and turnover.?

3. Embracing Enthusiasm and “Ignorance”

A key factor in the Tigers’ resurgence in 2024 has been Hinch’s embrace of young talent. The Tigers have the second-youngest roster in MLB, with an average age of 26.9 years. Players like Parker Meadows, Colt Keith, and others have brought energy and excitement to the team, which Hinch has fully embraced. He has created a culture where youthful enthusiasm is encouraged and allowed to flourish, injecting new life into the roster. This highlights the importance of embracing fresh ideas and perspectives, as younger team members can often bring innovation and energy that propel the team forward. Leaders and veteran employees offer “wisdom” to newer colleagues based on personal experience that can discourage new employees from taking action. Hinch’s approach shows how managers can blend experience with youthful energy to build a more dynamic and successful team.

These are just a few ideas I picked up from watching the Detroit Tigers. What philosophies from the sports world have you applied to managing your corporate team?