To me, four years is a big commitment, both for the organization and the player. We're very happy to get this done.

You will not find a more dedicated, hardworking and respected individual that cares more about the Tigers and his coaching staff. However, for the Tigers to reach the next level, I feel it is appropriate to make a change at this time.

I don't have any steadfast rule. I think it's more of a generality. I think in Mike's case, he's a guy who expressed a desire to have a multiyear deal. Based upon his past performance, we were open-minded to it.

We're extremely pleased to have a person of his makeup and his ability to bolster the bullpen.

We won a world championship with some high-maintenance ballplayers and he handled Barry Bonds (in Pittsburgh).

I am driven to move quickly because I think there could be a lot of interest in Jim Leyland.