A pause for patriotism...



NEW YORK -- Jim Leyland put his argument with umpires on hold for a moment of patriotism.

The Detroit Tigers' manager was ejected in the seventh inning of Thursday's 6-4 loss to New York, then he went onto the field to argue with plate umpire James Hoye.

Leyland got to the plate and started jawing with Hoye when Yankee Stadium public address announcer Bob Sheppard called for a moment of silence followed by the playing of Kate Smith's rendition of "God Bless America." Leyland backed off and stood at attention before resuming the argument.

"That was a little embarrassing," Leyland said. "I certainly in no way, shape or form would I ever be disrespectful. But you don't tell the umpires, 'Hey, I've got to listen to Kate.' "

Leyland was unhappy with Hoye's strike zone. Leyland, tossed for the second time this season, said he did not deserve to be ejected.

"I say less to the umpires than any manager in this league," he said.

Jim Leyland is all that is man!