The Detroit Tigers organization has fired Triple-A manager Gabe Alvarez after a human resources investigation into harassment claims by a female employee, according to The Athletic.
The Tigers confirmed Alvarez’s firing on Tuesday, May 5, citing “a violation of club policy.” Sources told The Athletic that the Tigers’ parent company was made aware of the complaint against Alvarez, 52, on the evening of Monday, May 4.
Alvarez issued a statement to ESPN on Wednesday, May 6, explaining some of the alleged details that led to his termination.
“I sent a single text message to a colleague that I intended as a lighthearted joke,” Alvarez said. “Shortly after sending it, I recognized that the message was inappropriate and did not reflect the values and judgment I strive to uphold, and I immediately reached out to clarify my intent.”
The statement continued, “I never intended to cause discomfort or offense, and I regret that the message created this situation. This was an isolated incident and not reflective of my long-standing record of professionalism, respect for colleagues and conduct over the course of my career.”
Alvarez was promoted to manager of the Triple-A Toledo Mud Hens in February 2025. He previously coached the Tigers’ Double-A affiliate, the Erie SeaWolves, for three seasons.
The firing of Alvarez is the latest of similar misconduct scandals within Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, who owns the Tigers and the NHL’s Detroit Red Wings.
In April 2025, Tigers assistant general manager Sam Menzin abruptly resigned after 13 years with the team, shortly before the organization was set to fire him. Menzin allegedly sent unsolicited lewd photos to two former Tigers employees, according to The Athletic.
“Upon being made aware of the allegations as to Sam Menzin’s conduct, the club promptly completed an investigation,” the Tigers said in a statement at the time. “Before the club could terminate Mr. Menzin, he resigned. This type of behavior is contrary to our standards and has absolutely no place within our organization. We have a positive and safe culture for our colleagues and will continue to emphasize respect, inclusion, and professionalism.”
In September 2025, an investigation by The Athletic found at least eight men employed by Ilitch Sports + Entertainment or its former broadcast partner — including Menzin — had been accused of misconduct toward women since 2023.
In response to the investigation, Ilitch Sports + Entertainment CEO Ryan Gustafson said an external investigation into workplace culture would not be happening.
“Do we need to focus on continued improvement in our culture? Yes,” he told The Athletic at the time. “But I’m very confident that there isn’t a larger issue from a misconduct standpoint.”
Mike Hessman will serve as Triple-A Toledo’s interim manager in the wake of Alvarez’s firing.
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