The Tigers and the entire sport of baseball lost a legend Monday with the passing of Al Kaline.
Tributes for Mr. Tiger began pouring in shortly after the news of his death. One of the first to react was Justin Verlander, who grew close with Kaline during his 13 seasons in Detroit.
"Such a kind and generous man who meant so much to so many," Verlander said on Twitter. "I hope you knew how much I enjoyed our conversations about baseball, life, or just giving each other a hard time. I am honored to have been able to call you my friend for all these years."
Among the current Tigers to remember Kaline were starters Matthew Boyd and Daniel Norris.
Norris called Kaline "one of the most remarkable human beings I've ever met. He garnered respect that he never assumed. His love and compassion were staples in the Tiger clubhouse that found their way home with each and every one of us every time he showed up."
Boyd recalled Kaline "greeting every player with kindness and a listening ear."
Catcher Grayson Greiner said, "Your stories & advice brought a smile to everybody's face on a daily basis."
Jake Rogers echoed his fellow catcher.
Closer Joe Jimenez put it simply: "The best Tiger that ever lived!"
Fellow Hall of Famer Wade Boggs:
All-Star Alex Bregman:
Kaline even got a tribute from actor and Detroit native Jeff Daniels, who said of the 10-time Gold Glove winner, "He was the only fielder who could make the ball come to him."
