Tigers’ AJ Hinch under fire for Casey Mize decision in Game 4 of ALDS

Managerial decisions during the MLB postseason can certainly be hard to make.

For AJ Hinch, manager of the Detroit Tigers, a decision to remove starting pitcher Casey Mize in Game 4 of the American League Division Series against the Seattle Mariners has caused quite a bit of backlash across social media.

Hinch removed Mize after three strong innings in Wednesday’s game. Mize had allowed just two hits, one run and struck out six during his outing. Hinch opted to go into his bullpen, a move that backfired when left-hander Tyler Holton loaded the bases before recording an out.

Detroit’s bullpen allowed a run in both the fourth and fifth innings after Mize had been removed from the game. The decision enraged fans across social media and questioned Hinch’s managerial abilities in big moments.

Detroit stormed back to tie the game against Seattle’s bullpen after an early hook for its started Bryce Miller, but it does not take away from the fact that Hinch’s bullpen will need to cover at least 18 outs in Wednesday’s game. If the Tigers are able to hang on and win, the bullpen could very well be gassed headed into Game 5 on Friday.

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