Tigers manager Jim Leyland defends decision to bench Ordonez

Leyland defends decision to bench Ordonez

DETROIT — Detroit Tigers manager Jim Leyland isn’t quite ready to announce Magglio Ordonez’s return to the lineup.

He is, however, eager to clear up rumors about the reason for Ordonez’s benching.

Ordonez, in a season-long slump, hasn’t played since June 17. Leyland said Sunday he is “looking” at Tuesday’s series opener against the Cubs as a possible return, but hasn’t made a final decision.

Ordonez is hitting .273 with only two homers in 57 games and 242 plate appearances.

“This is about the Detroit Tigers and a player trying to get things right,” he said. “I’m trying to do what is best for Magglio and the team. If we can find a way to get him going, it is great for us.”

Leyland acknowledged being bothered by quotes from Ordonez’s agent, Scott Boras, that he felt implied the benching was due to a clause in Ordonez’s contract. If he gets 215 more plate appearances this season, he will activate an $18 million deal for next season.

“If you looked closely at that story, I felt it questioned my integrity, and I’m not going to take that from anyone,” Leyland said. “I have a great deal of respect for Scott Boras, and for the work he does for his clients. I don’t know him to go after managers — I was shocked by his comments.”

Leyland said that he tried to call Boras four times on Friday, and received a message from the agent — during Saturday’s game.

“Maybe he thought he’d catch me in the clubhouse having a smoke,” Leyland said.