News@noon: Snyder after Flint, meet the real Tigers

The Detroit News Published 11:28 a.m. ET March 31, 2016 | Updated 4:47 p.m. ET April 1, 2016

Chris McCosky of The Detroit News profiles members of the 2016 Tigers team.

Chris McCosky of The Detroit News profiles members of the 2016 Tigers team. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

PITCHERS

PITCHERS Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Justin Verlander, RHP, age 33, 6-5, 235: A triceps injury cost him the first half of the season, but once he got healthy he proved he was still capable of anchoring a starting rotation. Over his last 11 starts he posted a 2.12 ERA and opponents hit just .194 against him. His fastball, again, was registering in the mid to upper 90s, but more importantly, he has become much more adept in the art of pitching. He studies scouting reports now and preys on hitter’s weaknesses.

Justin Verlander, RHP, age 33, 6-5, 235: A triceps injury cost him the first half of the season, but once he got healthy he proved he was still capable of anchoring a starting rotation. Over his last 11 starts he posted a 2.12 ERA and opponents hit just .194 against him. His fastball, again, was registering in the mid to upper 90s, but more importantly, he has become much more adept in the art of pitching. He studies scouting reports now and preys on hitter’s weaknesses. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Jordan Zimmermann, RHP, age 29, 6-2, 223: After some of the other deals signed by free-agent pitchers this offseason, the Tigers must feel the five-year, $110 million deal they gave Zimmermann was a bargain. A two-time all-star, he’s made at least 30 starts four straight years and has a career ERA of 3.32 with a 1.16 WHIP. This is a steady, dependable and productive starting pitcher.

Jordan Zimmermann, RHP, age 29, 6-2, 223: After some of the other deals signed by free-agent pitchers this offseason, the Tigers must feel the five-year, $110 million deal they gave Zimmermann was a bargain. A two-time all-star, he’s made at least 30 starts four straight years and has a career ERA of 3.32 with a 1.16 WHIP. This is a steady, dependable and productive starting pitcher. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Anibal Sanchez, RHP, age 32, 6-0, 205: Coming off a disastrous season where he battled shoulder soreness and allowed a career-worst 29 home runs, Sanchez was further set back this spring with triceps inflammation. But he has simplified his delivery, no longer turning his back to the plate, which has both reduced stress on his arm and given his pitches more downward action. It is critical for this rotation that Sanchez stay healthy and produce at least close to what he did in 2013 when he posted the league’s lowest ERA.

Anibal Sanchez, RHP, age 32, 6-0, 205: Coming off a disastrous season where he battled shoulder soreness and allowed a career-worst 29 home runs, Sanchez was further set back this spring with triceps inflammation. But he has simplified his delivery, no longer turning his back to the plate, which has both reduced stress on his arm and given his pitches more downward action. It is critical for this rotation that Sanchez stay healthy and produce at least close to what he did in 2013 when he posted the league’s lowest ERA. Robin Buckson / Detroit News

Mike Pelfrey, RHP, age 32, 6-7, 245: Coming off his first fully healthy offseason in four years, Pelfrey has had an impressive spring. When he is on his game, his hard sinker produces a lot of ground balls, which should play well for the Tigers. He also keeps the ball in the yard. He had the lowest home run rate in baseball last season. He may not make an all-star team but more often than not, he will compete and give the Tigers a chance to win games.

Mike Pelfrey, RHP, age 32, 6-7, 245: Coming off his first fully healthy offseason in four years, Pelfrey has had an impressive spring. When he is on his game, his hard sinker produces a lot of ground balls, which should play well for the Tigers. He also keeps the ball in the yard. He had the lowest home run rate in baseball last season. He may not make an all-star team but more often than not, he will compete and give the Tigers a chance to win games. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Shane Greene, RHP, age 27, 6-4, 215: He won the fifth starter spot last year and was unhittable for three starts. Then all hell broke loose for him. He began to feel tingling and numbness in his fingers, learned he had ulnar neuritis that ultimately required surgery to fix. He has come through it very well, with his fastball hitting 96 with a hard sinker. Toward the end of camp was on the verge of again winning the fifth rotation spot.

Shane Greene, RHP, age 27, 6-4, 215: He won the fifth starter spot last year and was unhittable for three starts. Then all hell broke loose for him. He began to feel tingling and numbness in his fingers, learned he had ulnar neuritis that ultimately required surgery to fix. He has come through it very well, with his fastball hitting 96 with a hard sinker. Toward the end of camp was on the verge of again winning the fifth rotation spot. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Francisco Rodriguez, RHP, age 34, 6-0, 180: He no longer has the upper-90s heater that earned him his nickname — K-Rod. But he’s earned a doctorate in the art of pitching. He is the game’s active saves leader with 386, he’s had the best save percentage in baseball and his WHIP has been under 1.00 the last two years. He may have the most effective change-up the game has seen since Trevor Hoffman.

Francisco Rodriguez, RHP, age 34, 6-0, 180: He no longer has the upper-90s heater that earned him his nickname — K-Rod. But he’s earned a doctorate in the art of pitching. He is the game’s active saves leader with 386, he’s had the best save percentage in baseball and his WHIP has been under 1.00 the last two years. He may have the most effective change-up the game has seen since Trevor Hoffman. John Raoux, Associated Press

Mark Lowe, RHP, age 32, 6-3, 210: He’s been through every situation imaginable for a reliever – he’s gotten big outs in the postseason, he’s given up iconic home runs in the postseason (David Freese), he’s been shuttled back and forth from Triple A to the majors. But when healthy, as he is now, he has been one of the top setup men in the game. He’s still throwing a mid-90s fastball with a wipeout slider.

Mark Lowe, RHP, age 32, 6-3, 210: He’s been through every situation imaginable for a reliever – he’s gotten big outs in the postseason, he’s given up iconic home runs in the postseason (David Freese), he’s been shuttled back and forth from Triple A to the majors. But when healthy, as he is now, he has been one of the top setup men in the game. He’s still throwing a mid-90s fastball with a wipeout slider. John Raoux, Associated Press

Justin Wilson, LHP, age 28, 6-2, 210: A power lefty – the Tigers have long searched for this type of presence in their bullpen. In four seasons (three with the Pirates, last season with the Yankees), he struck out 193 in 199.1 innings. He’s also allowed just 11 career homers and posted a 1.20 WHIP. He is a no-frills competitor. He will attack hitters with a fastball that will get into the upper-90s.

Justin Wilson, LHP, age 28, 6-2, 210: A power lefty – the Tigers have long searched for this type of presence in their bullpen. In four seasons (three with the Pirates, last season with the Yankees), he struck out 193 in 199.1 innings. He’s also allowed just 11 career homers and posted a 1.20 WHIP. He is a no-frills competitor. He will attack hitters with a fastball that will get into the upper-90s. John Raoux, Associated Press

Blaine Hardy, LHP, age: 29, 6-2, 230: He’s been the club’s most trusted lefty in the pen the last two seasons, but he’s worn down in September both years. He may be used more in long relief this season, which suits his repertoire (he is a former starter). He may start the season on the DL with a shoulder impingement.

Blaine Hardy, LHP, age: 29, 6-2, 230: He’s been the club’s most trusted lefty in the pen the last two seasons, but he’s worn down in September both years. He may be used more in long relief this season, which suits his repertoire (he is a former starter). He may start the season on the DL with a shoulder impingement. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Alex Wilson, RHP, age 29, 6-0, 215: Easily the most consistent performer in the pen last season, and most versatile, Wilson has battled shoulder and lat ailments this spring. There is a good chance he will start the season on the DL and in extended spring training. He remains, though, a key piece of this bullpen and his spot awaits him when he is fully healthy.

Alex Wilson, RHP, age 29, 6-0, 215: Easily the most consistent performer in the pen last season, and most versatile, Wilson has battled shoulder and lat ailments this spring. There is a good chance he will start the season on the DL and in extended spring training. He remains, though, a key piece of this bullpen and his spot awaits him when he is fully healthy. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Drew VerHagen, RHP, age 25, 6-6, 240:
It was a back injury that forced the Tigers to move VerHagen to the bullpen, and it may have been a career-making move. In shorter stints, his fastball velocity is steady in the mid-90s and he is always in attack mode. He mixes in a knee-buckling curveball and change-up, but it’s the power stuff, coming hard on a downward plane from his 6-6 frame that makes him effective.

Drew VerHagen, RHP, age 25, 6-6, 240: It was a back injury that forced the Tigers to move VerHagen to the bullpen, and it may have been a career-making move. In shorter stints, his fastball velocity is steady in the mid-90s and he is always in attack mode. He mixes in a knee-buckling curveball and change-up, but it’s the power stuff, coming hard on a downward plane from his 6-6 frame that makes him effective. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Kyle Ryan, LHP, age 24, 6-5, 210: For the second straight year, Ryan has won a job with a dominant spring. The Tigers have mostly settled on using him as a reliever, which is where he is most comfortable. His fastball will get into the low-90s, but he is deceptive and everything he throws has movement. In fact, his stuff moves so much he at times has trouble commanding it. But he is an unflappable competitor.

Kyle Ryan, LHP, age 24, 6-5, 210: For the second straight year, Ryan has won a job with a dominant spring. The Tigers have mostly settled on using him as a reliever, which is where he is most comfortable. His fastball will get into the low-90s, but he is deceptive and everything he throws has movement. In fact, his stuff moves so much he at times has trouble commanding it. But he is an unflappable competitor. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Buck Farmer, RHP, age 25, 6-4, 225: He was in the battle for the fifth rotation spot until the last few weeks of camp, but he’s pitched well enough to be considered for a bullpen role. The Tigers could choose to keep him in the rotation at Toledo. He has added a cutter and went back to using his curveball, both with good results this spring.

Buck Farmer, RHP, age 25, 6-4, 225: He was in the battle for the fifth rotation spot until the last few weeks of camp, but he’s pitched well enough to be considered for a bullpen role. The Tigers could choose to keep him in the rotation at Toledo. He has added a cutter and went back to using his curveball, both with good results this spring. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

CATCHERS

CATCHERS Robin Buckson, Detroit News

James McCann, R-R, age 25, 6-2, 210: He took over as the team’s everyday catcher early last season and never looked back. He caught 112 games without making an error and threw out 41 percent of base stealers. He quickly won the respect and trust of a veteran pitching staff and emerged as one of the team’s leaders. Needs to take another step offensively, but has the potential to hit 15 to 20 homers.

James McCann, R-R, age 25, 6-2, 210: He took over as the team’s everyday catcher early last season and never looked back. He caught 112 games without making an error and threw out 41 percent of base stealers. He quickly won the respect and trust of a veteran pitching staff and emerged as one of the team’s leaders. Needs to take another step offensively, but has the potential to hit 15 to 20 homers. John Raoux, Associated Press

Jarrod Saltalamacchia, S-R, C, age 30, 6-4, 235: The Tigers acquired the veteran Saltalamacchia to add a left-handed bat to a heavily right-handed-hitting lineup. He has hit for power from the left side, but his production and playing time have fallen off the last two years. He made some adjustments last year in Arizona and finished strong. He’s hit the ball well in spring, as well.

Jarrod Saltalamacchia, S-R, C, age 30, 6-4, 235: The Tigers acquired the veteran Saltalamacchia to add a left-handed bat to a heavily right-handed-hitting lineup. He has hit for power from the left side, but his production and playing time have fallen off the last two years. He made some adjustments last year in Arizona and finished strong. He’s hit the ball well in spring, as well. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

INFIELDERS

INFIELDERS Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Ian Kinsler, 2B, age 33, R-R, 6-0, 200: Because of his soldier-like approach to the game, his durability, his underappreciated range and skill in the field and his steady, dependable production at the plate, he’s as valuable a piece to this Tigers puzzle as anybody. Amidst all the chaos and tumult last season, it was Kinsler who stepped out of his comfort zone, took on a more vocal leadership role and kept the clubhouse from blowing apart.

Ian Kinsler, 2B, age 33, R-R, 6-0, 200: Because of his soldier-like approach to the game, his durability, his underappreciated range and skill in the field and his steady, dependable production at the plate, he’s as valuable a piece to this Tigers puzzle as anybody. Amidst all the chaos and tumult last season, it was Kinsler who stepped out of his comfort zone, took on a more vocal leadership role and kept the clubhouse from blowing apart. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Miguel Cabrera, 1B, age 32, R-R, 6-4, 240: For the first time in three years he had a completely healthy offseason. He’s come back stronger, especially in his legs, and is driving the ball with his usual authority. His stated goal is to stay healthy for a whole season, something he hasn’t done since 2012 – he won the Triple Crown that year.

Miguel Cabrera, 1B, age 32, R-R, 6-4, 240: For the first time in three years he had a completely healthy offseason. He’s come back stronger, especially in his legs, and is driving the ball with his usual authority. His stated goal is to stay healthy for a whole season, something he hasn’t done since 2012 – he won the Triple Crown that year. John Raoux, Associated Press

Nick Castellanos, 3B, age 24, R-R, 6-4, 210: He went through the worst hitting slump of his life last season, to the point where he was benched for three games, and came through it a smarter, better hitter. He was one of the team’s most consistent hitters in the final three months and continued to show improvement at third base. He has lost some of his upper body bulk, which has increased his mobility and agility in the field.

Nick Castellanos, 3B, age 24, R-R, 6-4, 210: He went through the worst hitting slump of his life last season, to the point where he was benched for three games, and came through it a smarter, better hitter. He was one of the team’s most consistent hitters in the final three months and continued to show improvement at third base. He has lost some of his upper body bulk, which has increased his mobility and agility in the field. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Jose Iglesias, SS, age 26, R-R, 5-11, 185: An athletically gifted shortstop, he’s had to learn some hard lessons about being a “team” player. He has vowed to make the necessary sacrifices and to focus more on making winning plays than individual goals. But, promises are easier to make in the spring than they are to keep through the grind of a long season. This is an all-star talent. Time will tell if he’s a winning player.

Jose Iglesias, SS, age 26, R-R, 5-11, 185: An athletically gifted shortstop, he’s had to learn some hard lessons about being a “team” player. He has vowed to make the necessary sacrifices and to focus more on making winning plays than individual goals. But, promises are easier to make in the spring than they are to keep through the grind of a long season. This is an all-star talent. Time will tell if he’s a winning player. Chris O'Meara, Associated Press

Andrew Romine, U, age 30, S-R, 6-1, 200: Last year, they asked him to be the emergency catcher. This year, he could end up playing in center field while Cameron Maybin mends. Romine continues to validate the word “super” in super-utility player. He plays every infield position and two outfield positions at a very high level. He also had a couple of hot stretches with the bat last year. Valuable contributor.

Andrew Romine, U, age 30, S-R, 6-1, 200: Last year, they asked him to be the emergency catcher. This year, he could end up playing in center field while Cameron Maybin mends. Romine continues to validate the word “super” in super-utility player. He plays every infield position and two outfield positions at a very high level. He also had a couple of hot stretches with the bat last year. Valuable contributor. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Mike Aviles, R-R, age 35, 5-10, 205: It’s unclear how manager Brad Ausmus will use both Romine and Aviles. They play the same positions. Romine is a better shortstop and second baseman; Aviles may have a slight edge at third base. Aviles is also more productive against left-handed pitching than the switch-hitting Romine. One thing is clear, though, the clubhouse is a healthier place with Aviles in it. True pro.

Mike Aviles, R-R, age 35, 5-10, 205: It’s unclear how manager Brad Ausmus will use both Romine and Aviles. They play the same positions. Romine is a better shortstop and second baseman; Aviles may have a slight edge at third base. Aviles is also more productive against left-handed pitching than the switch-hitting Romine. One thing is clear, though, the clubhouse is a healthier place with Aviles in it. True pro. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

OUTFIELDERS

OUTFIELDERS Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Justin Upton, LF, age 28, R-R, 6-2, 205: This was the icing on the cake for this particular roster. Instead of some type of platoon between Tyler Collins and Cameron Maybin, owner Mike Ilitch wanted an elite hitter in left field. So the Tigers now have Upton, who in the last three seasons averaged 27 homers and 84 RBIs. He will bat second in the lineup, which fits well with his .352 lifetime on-base percentage.

Justin Upton, LF, age 28, R-R, 6-2, 205: This was the icing on the cake for this particular roster. Instead of some type of platoon between Tyler Collins and Cameron Maybin, owner Mike Ilitch wanted an elite hitter in left field. So the Tigers now have Upton, who in the last three seasons averaged 27 homers and 84 RBIs. He will bat second in the lineup, which fits well with his .352 lifetime on-base percentage. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

J.D. Martinez, RF, age 28, R-R, 6-3, 221: He proved he wasn’t a one-hit wonder last year, making the All-Star team, winning a Silver Slugger award, being named Tiger of the Year, and leading the club in homers and RBIs. He’s also made himself into a Gold Glove finalist in right, with 15 outfield assists. A window into his character: Despite all his personal success, he said he didn’t much enjoy last season. “Losing stinks,” he said.

J.D. Martinez, RF, age 28, R-R, 6-3, 221: He proved he wasn’t a one-hit wonder last year, making the All-Star team, winning a Silver Slugger award, being named Tiger of the Year, and leading the club in homers and RBIs. He’s also made himself into a Gold Glove finalist in right, with 15 outfield assists. A window into his character: Despite all his personal success, he said he didn’t much enjoy last season. “Losing stinks,” he said. John Raoux, Associated Press

Anthony Gose, CF, age 25, L-L, 6-1, 190: There were ups and downs, as expected, but Gose steadily improved and matured as a player through his first full season. He proved what the Tigers suspected, he can be a productive everyday center fielder in the big leagues. He still needs to make more contact at the plate – which is why he’s adding the bunt to his offensive arsenal – and utilize his speed. But he produced above expectations.

Anthony Gose, CF, age 25, L-L, 6-1, 190: There were ups and downs, as expected, but Gose steadily improved and matured as a player through his first full season. He proved what the Tigers suspected, he can be a productive everyday center fielder in the big leagues. He still needs to make more contact at the plate – which is why he’s adding the bunt to his offensive arsenal – and utilize his speed. But he produced above expectations. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

$Cameron Maybin, CF, age 29, R-R, 6-3, 215: He was supposed to battle Gose for the starting job in center, but first a shoulder injury then a fractured wrist kept him off the field most of the spring. He is expected to open the season on the DL. Once healthy, the Tigers could have a productive platoon in center field with the right-handed-hitting Maybin and lefty Gose.$

Cameron Maybin, CF, age 29, R-R, 6-3, 215: He was supposed to battle Gose for the starting job in center, but first a shoulder injury then a fractured wrist kept him off the field most of the spring. He is expected to open the season on the DL. Once healthy, the Tigers could have a productive platoon in center field with the right-handed-hitting Maybin and lefty Gose. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Tyler Collins, RF, LF, CF, age 25, L-L, 5-11, 215: He could make the Opening Day roster as a fill-in for Maybin. He got extra work in center field during spring training and seemed to take well to the position. He also offers something the Tigers don’t have much of – a power left-handed bat. He performed well in some rare extended playing time at the end of last season. He could also make the club as a makeshift DH if Victor Martinez isn’t ready.

Tyler Collins, RF, LF, CF, age 25, L-L, 5-11, 215: He could make the Opening Day roster as a fill-in for Maybin. He got extra work in center field during spring training and seemed to take well to the position. He also offers something the Tigers don’t have much of – a power left-handed bat. He performed well in some rare extended playing time at the end of last season. He could also make the club as a makeshift DH if Victor Martinez isn’t ready. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Wynton Bernard, CF, age 25, R-R, 6-2, 200: Another candidate to fill in for Maybin in a short-term stay. Bernard, who has not played about Double A, is a true center fielder and has above average speed, for use as a pinch runner late in games. He also hits right-handed, which would complement Gose. But the bulk of his duty will be at Triple A Toledo this season.

Wynton Bernard, CF, age 25, R-R, 6-2, 200: Another candidate to fill in for Maybin in a short-term stay. Bernard, who has not played about Double A, is a true center fielder and has above average speed, for use as a pinch runner late in games. He also hits right-handed, which would complement Gose. But the bulk of his duty will be at Triple A Toledo this season. Chris O'Meara, Associated Press

DESIGNATED HITTER

DESIGNATED HITTER Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Victor Martinez, S-R, age 37, 6-2, 210: Here we go again. Martinez had his 2015 season ruined by a weakened left knee. Midway through what was a productive spring camp, Martinez strained his left hamstring. Once again, like last year, there is uncertainty whether he will start the season on time. There’s no way to understate his importance. He is a career .300 hitter from both sides of the plate. Nobody protects Cabrera better than he does. He’s also one of the team’s leaders and his ability to lead is weakened if he’s not playing.

Victor Martinez, S-R, age 37, 6-2, 210: Here we go again. Martinez had his 2015 season ruined by a weakened left knee. Midway through what was a productive spring camp, Martinez strained his left hamstring. Once again, like last year, there is uncertainty whether he will start the season on time. There’s no way to understate his importance. He is a career .300 hitter from both sides of the plate. Nobody protects Cabrera better than he does. He’s also one of the team’s leaders and his ability to lead is weakened if he’s not playing. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

MANAGER

MANAGER Robin Buckson, Detroit News

Brad Ausmus, third year, age 46: In the face of loudly negative public opinion, general manager Al Avila boldly gave Ausmus a stay of execution last season. He wasn’t going to make Ausmus the fall guy for the injuries and a faulty bullpen. Ausmus deserves credit for keeping a cool head through all the storms last year, for maintaining the trust and respect of the players and for the way the team continued to play hard to the bitter end — especially after the squad was gutted at the trade deadline. You don’t survive a year like that without coming out a smarter, more capable leader. That said, Avila will expect results with a revamped bullpen and roster.

Brad Ausmus, third year, age 46: In the face of loudly negative public opinion, general manager Al Avila boldly gave Ausmus a stay of execution last season. He wasn’t going to make Ausmus the fall guy for the injuries and a faulty bullpen. Ausmus deserves credit for keeping a cool head through all the storms last year, for maintaining the trust and respect of the players and for the way the team continued to play hard to the bitter end — especially after the squad was gutted at the trade deadline. You don’t survive a year like that without coming out a smarter, more capable leader. That said, Avila will expect results with a revamped bullpen and roster. Robin Buckson, Detroit News

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Today is a rainy Thursday, March 31, 2016, and it's Media Open House at Comerica Park. Stick with us on Twitter, Instagram (@detroitnews) and Snapchat (Add "Detroitnews") for updates from the ballpark on all the new foods, new merchandise and new giveaways.

And while you're filling your head with dreams of (a hopefully sunnier) home opener, take a moment to look beyond the uniforms with Lynn Henning and get to know the real Detroit Tigers.

Here's what's making news today:

Snyder, after Flint

A year ago, he was flirting with a presidential run. Now Gov. Rick Snyder is fighting for political relevance in the midst of fallout and finger-pointing over the Flint water contamination catastrophe.
Fortune Magazine has even placed Snyder in its list of the 19 most “disappointing” world leaders because of his administration's role in the crisis.
Get complete coverage of the Flint water crisis here.

2 shootings

Police need your help identifying a man who shot up a TGI Fridays in Southfield early Thursday morning.
A man who is “well known to law enforcement” was found shot dead in Inkster early Thursday morning, Michigan State Police said in a statement. This is the fourth homicide of the year in Inkster, a town of about 25,000 people.

Smith to resign

State Sen. Virgil Smith, serving a 10-month jail sentence after shooting up his ex-wife’s car, is expected to tender his resignation by Friday, according to Senate Majority Leader Arlan Meekhof’s office.

Boater found dead

Authorities have identified the body of a boater who was briefly reported as missing Wednesday night. The boat was located when searchers saw its bow sticking out of the water in Anchor Bay. Another man on the boat was saved.

Happening in sports

In a wide-ranging interview Thursday morning on “The Michigan Insider,” Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh discussed specifics about the leadership on this team as the Wolverines prepare to conclude spring practice. Harbaugh also discussed NCAA rule makers who will vote in April on satellite-camp proposals from the SEC and ACC, which don’t allow their coaches to work camps outside a 50-mile radius.
It was nearly two years ago when Stan Van Gundy was named Pistons coach and president of basketball operations. And it's his bold moves that have positioned the Pistons for the playoffs.
Tony Granato started out giving advice to Wisconsin athletic director Barry Alvarez about the men’s hockey coaching vacancy at the school and ended up getting the job. The chance to return to his alma mater was too enticing to Granato, even worth leaving his gig as an assistant coach for the Detroit Red Wings.

Bringing life to Detroit

Live, work, play. That's the kind of Detroit Dan Gilbert's companies want to create, and his own employees have led the way. The Quicken Loans Inc.founder said 3,100 of his workers live in Detroit, up from the 77 who lived in the Motor City when he first moved his online mortgage firm downtown in August 2010.

The lighter side

Neal Rubin shares the story of one daughter who gave up her dreams of Hollywood to take care of her mother, and what she's doing now. You might say she's a familiar face.
Looking for a new beer to try? Head on over to the First Draft blog to learn more about Jolly Pumpkin's limited edition Clementina.

Generation 6 of the Camaro debuted as a 2016 model, with the Corvette’s direct-injection LT1 V8 and optional eight-speed automatic. It was enthusiastically received, winning several prestigious car of the year awards.

Generation 6 of the Camaro debuted as a 2016 model, with the Corvette’s direct-injection LT1 V8 and optional eight-speed automatic. It was enthusiastically received, winning several prestigious car of the year awards. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

Turn the Camaro's key and the BLAAAAT! of the familiar quad-exhaust fills the air.

Turn the Camaro's key and the BLAAAAT! of the familiar quad-exhaust fills the air. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

The new Camaro isn't so much a muscle car, it's a sports car.

The new Camaro isn't so much a muscle car, it's a sports car. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

The 2016 Camaro comes in lots of bright colors.

The 2016 Camaro comes in lots of bright colors. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

On Death Valley's Route 190, with no intersections and sightings of other vehicles as rare as rain drops, the SS had plenty of room to stretch its legs. It will rocket to 125 mph in the blink of an eye.

On Death Valley's Route 190, with no intersections and sightings of other vehicles as rare as rain drops, the SS had plenty of room to stretch its legs. It will rocket to 125 mph in the blink of an eye. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

With the sixth-generation Camaro, GM has torn up the pony car playbook and put a muscle coupe on a luxury performance platform. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

Inside, the convertible's interior is the same, quirky office as other Camaros. Same cool, central, aviator-style cooling ducts set so low in the cabin that only your elbows get AC.

Inside, the convertible's interior is the same, quirky office as other Camaros. Same cool, central, aviator-style cooling ducts set so low in the cabin that only your elbows get AC. Tom Roche, Chevrolet

The Camaro has a segment-first LED ambient lighting system with 24 available colors seen on the dash, door panels and center console, and a customizable car show mode for when the vehicle is parked.

The Camaro has a segment-first LED ambient lighting system with 24 available colors seen on the dash, door panels and center console, and a customizable car show mode for when the vehicle is parked. Chevrolet

Enjoy the SS's heads-up instrument display because you'll be spending hours in this car gulping asphalt at an alarming rate of knots.

Enjoy the SS's heads-up instrument display because you'll be spending hours in this car gulping asphalt at an alarming rate of knots. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

With the roof up the Camaro bears an uncanny resemblance to a World War II pillbox, with its narrow slits for windows and a blind spot the size of Donald Trump’s ego.

With the roof up the Camaro bears an uncanny resemblance to a World War II pillbox, with its narrow slits for windows and a blind spot the size of Donald Trump’s ego. Chevrolet

With an insane 455-horsepower, the SS lopes down the street with a menacing gurgle. Stomp the pedal and the rear end briefly twitches with delight under the 410-pound feet of torque.

With an insane 455-horsepower, the SS lopes down the street with a menacing gurgle. Stomp the pedal and the rear end briefly twitches with delight under the 410-pound feet of torque. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

With planted steering, magnetic shocks and stiff springs, the $57,000 SS is a locomotive on rails.

With planted steering, magnetic shocks and stiff springs, the $57,000 SS is a locomotive on rails. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

Like the sublime Corvette C7 (with which it shares an LT4 engine), the SS was conceived from the ground up with the convertible in mind.

Like the sublime Corvette C7 (with which it shares an LT4 engine), the SS was conceived from the ground up with the convertible in mind. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

My blood red steed delivered me without convertible cowl shake, back discomfort or a misplaced wheel.

My blood red steed delivered me without convertible cowl shake, back discomfort or a misplaced wheel. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

Chief engineer Al Oppenheiser is the brains behind the best Camaro ever.

Chief engineer Al Oppenheiser is the brains behind the best Camaro ever. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

The SS's infotainment screen is angled downward so you can barely read the nav map through your 7-Eleven cup's reflection.

The SS's infotainment screen is angled downward so you can barely read the nav map through your 7-Eleven cup's reflection. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

With 135-degree temps in summer, Death Valley shade is appreciated.

With 135-degree temps in summer, Death Valley shade is appreciated. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

The SS's modular structure is not only significantly lighter than its predecessor (by 275 pounds) - but lighter than the last generation coupe.

The SS's modular structure is not only significantly lighter than its predecessor (by 275 pounds) - but lighter than the last generation coupe. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

With the top down, you get the V-8 at full volume — its eight-speed automatic tranny spitting a peppery bark with each 6,500 rpm upshift.

With the top down, you get the V-8 at full volume — its eight-speed automatic tranny spitting a peppery bark with each 6,500 rpm upshift. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

The SS not only shares its chassis with the ATS and its engine with the C7, it also gets the 'Vette's hat. It's like being the third Manning brother. Great hand-me-downs.

The SS not only shares its chassis with the ATS and its engine with the C7, it also gets the 'Vette's hat. It's like being the third Manning brother. Great hand-me-downs. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

Slow to below 35 mph and the SS top will retreat beneath a lovely rear tonneau cover.

Slow to below 35 mph and the SS top will retreat beneath a lovely rear tonneau cover. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

Camaro vs. Everybody. The new Camaro droptop has the same swagger as its native Motown.

Camaro vs. Everybody. The new Camaro droptop has the same swagger as its native Motown. Henry Payne, The Detroit News

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And because we could all use a little cheer on this dreary day: The first convertible V-8 of spring.

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