AJ Hinch returns to Houston after being fired from Astros, 1 year suspension
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- First-year Tigers manager A.J. Hinch returns to Houston for the first time since being suspended by Major League Baseball for his role in the sign-stealing scandal that rocked the sport.
With Hinch as their manager, the Astros were found to have used cameras and banged on trash cans to get an unfair advantage en route to winning the World Series in 2017.
Hinch was fired following a lengthy investigation and was prohibited from managing last season before being hired by the Tigers. He's expecting a warm reception in his first game back at Minute Maid Park.
"Houston fans have been tremendously supportive to me and my family," he said. "It's home for me. That city matters to me. The fans have been tremendous and obviously it will be very emotional when I see them."
RELATED: Detroit Tigers name former Astros manager AJ Hinch manager following MLB suspension
Detroit will be without slugger Miguel Cabrera, who was placed on the 10-day injured list Sunday with soreness in his left biceps.
"I know the fans are going to be happy to see him here. Looking forward to playing against him," star Astros second baseman José Altuve said. "It's going to be a little weird, but I think it'll be fun."
"He went through the lame years and he went through great years," said Dusty Baker, who replaced Hinch as the Astros' manager. "He still lives here. This is still his home, and I'm sure he'll have some jitters when he comes back."
The Astros and Tigers begin their three-game series Monday night.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
SEE ALSO: Astros GM, manager fired after 2017 sign-stealing investigation
