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No one involved in hiring AJ Hinch as manager by the Tigers was probably aware of the symbolism, but there it was, anyway. Three days after the end of his unprecedented season suspension from any and all major league-related activities, he found himself back in the thick of things. That the higher echelons of the sport couldn’t wait to get him back despite his inability to keep his positions from desecrating his integrity during his time with the Astros says a lot about his singular value in running the game. After all, he won a championship and was one game away from making two of two in the World Series, and bowed in the rubber match before being banned.
Whether his leadership has improved during his forced absence from The Show is, of course, another matter. He undoubtedly used punishment as an impetus for introspection. And he certainly knew that as soon as his suspension is lifted, he would generate interest from franchises that believe in his competition as a winner. Despite his monumental misstep, he understood the ability of sports to provide second chances, and especially to proven producers. History is full of controversial figures who managed to pass past tests with present achievements.
To be sure, redemption begins with opportunity, and it’s worth noting that Hinch was willing to receive one for several quarters. That’s why the White Sox, for example, were caught with a mistake that caused them to include their signature alongside the Tony La Russa mug in their new manager’s announcement. They had their eyes on him, but apparently the Tigers were quicker, calling him just half an hour after the Dodgers claimed the Commissioner’s Trophy. And he, unsurprisingly, seized the opportunity; it’s easy to lose baseball and it’s hard to scratch the urge to come back, and he rightly thought he shouldn’t be pulling his luck.
And so Hinch begins to walk his path to redemption with the Tigers. It will be riddled with obstacles, on and off the field. The talent you have at your disposal can best be described as bursting with potential, and fans wouldn’t be wrong to wonder how much will be affected by the excess baggage you carry with you. At the same time, this is true: he is very good at what he does. It’s what he didn’t do that brought him down, and damned if he hasn’t learned his lesson yet.
Anthony L. Cuaycong has been writing Courtside as Business world introduced a Sports section in 1994. He is a consultant in strategic planning, human resources and operations management, corporate communications and business development.
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