Tigers’ Triple-A manager says he was fired after sending ‘inappropriate’ text to female colleague

The recent firing of Detroit Tigers’ Triple-A manager, Gabe Alvarez, has caused quite a stir in the baseball community. The Tigers announced on Tuesday that Alvarez had been terminated for a “violation of club policy,” but did not provide specific details on the incident.

Alvarez admitted to ESPN that he had sent an “inappropriate” text message to a female colleague, which he intended as a lighthearted joke. However, he quickly realized his mistake and reached out to clarify his intent. Alvarez expressed regret for causing any discomfort or offense, emphasizing that the message was an isolated incident and not reflective of his usual professionalism and respect for colleagues.

The 52-year-old Alvarez, a former MLB player for the Tigers and Padres, had been working his way up the coaching ranks with the organization. He had been managing the Triple-A Toledo team since 2025, following stints as a hitting coordinator and assistant coach.

This incident comes on the heels of an investigation by The Athletic last September, which revealed allegations of misconduct by multiple Tigers employees towards women. The organization took swift action in response to the allegations, firing or not renewing contracts for those involved.

In light of Alvarez’s dismissal, hitting coach Mike Hessman has been appointed as interim manager for the Toledo team. Hessman emphasized the team’s focus on moving forward and getting back to baseball amidst the turmoil.

The Tigers organization has reiterated its commitment to fostering a culture of respect, safety, and inclusion within the workplace. As they navigate this challenging situation, they are determined to uphold these values and ensure a positive environment for all employees.

As the baseball community reacts to this latest development, it serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect in all interactions, both on and off the field. The Tigers will continue to address these issues head-on and strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for all members of the organization.