The Detroit Tigers, in a desperate attempt to stay competitive in the American League Central, decided that struggling closer Todd Jones needed to be replaced. Jones has surrendered 10 runs in his last 10 1/3 innings and was finally getting hit around the way you'd expect the 40-year-old finesse pitcher eventually would. Even though he was angered by Jim Leyland's decision, Jones took the news like a grizzled veteran, proud of his career achievements and handled his demotion with a soldier's dignity. Actually, he didn't do that at all:

"I've been to the depths of everything emotionally, but this is just one of those things you have to go through, too," Jones said, his eyes reddening. "You know, you're born into the big leagues and then you're born a closer and then one day you're no longer trusted with the brunt of the load in the ninth inning. My day came — what is it, July 27? — so there's no spilled milk here."

Jones stopped and referenced Leyland, who always stood behind him but couldn't do it now.

"I mean, I love that guy," Jones said, his lip quivering, his voice cracking. Finally, he turned away.

Aw. Don't you just want to give him a big squishy hug?

Tearful Jones resigned to fate with Tigers [Detroit News]

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