General manager Dave Dombrowski believes that Gerald Laird gives the Tigers the option to rest Alex Avila more often this season. Avila caught 132 games last year, including several stretches without a day off, which is believed to have led to the knee injuries he was forced to play through in the postseason. Tigers manager Jim Leyland said he is confident in Laird behind the plate and that he expects him to get his fair share of work. Avila could also serve a good amount of time as the DH with Victor Martinez (torn ACL) likely out for the season.