Recently, the Little Caesars AAA girls hockey program celebrated its graduating players who plan to play at colleges and universities throughout the United States, a testament to their years of dedication on theice, in the classroom, and through every season.

Little Caesars AAA was founded in 1968 by Mike and Marian Ilitch to give young people access to high-level competition and the opportunity to grow through the game.

The program is among the top in the country, thanks to the leadership of Head Coach Jeff Mitchell and the families who support these athletes along the way.

The Detroit Tigers are proud to share the return of a significant community initiative aimed at giving back to the community. Throughout the 2026 season, the Tigers will donate 135,000 tickets to community groups, schools, non-profit organizations and others– the same ticket amount the team distributed to the community in 2025.

This effort includes Major League Baseball’s Commissioner’s Community Initiative Tickets Program and the Downtown Development Authority’s (DDA) Tigers Ticket Donation Program. Donated tickets directly benefit thousands of deserving individuals from several different categories.

"Tigers baseball has the power to bring the community together in so many different ways -- we are excited to remove the primary barrier to attending games at Comerica Park through our community ticket donation program,” said Jon Perry, Community Impact Manager at Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “The Detroit Tigers are proud to announce the return of this program, which supports hundreds of diverse community organizations in Detroit and across Michigan as they positively impact the lives of young people and deserving community members by helping them attend Tigers home games each season.

“The complimentary ticket programs serve as a great example of our desire to open our doors and encourage organizations to use Tigers baseball as a vehicle to reach the families that they serve, generating community pride and togetherness through the excitement of America’s pastime.”

Consistent with seasons past, eligible groups must fall into one or more of the following categories to receive tickets:

• Auction Winners & Volunteer Recognition

• Boys & Girls Clubs

• Cultural Groups & Social Impact

• First Responders

• Governmental/Civic

• Health-related (including Mental Wellness and Hospitals)

• Homelessness/Housing

• Library/Reading Programs

• Military/Veterans

• RBI & Youth Baseball/Softball

• Religious Organizations

• Schools & Summer Camps

• Senior Citizens

• Youth & Family Services

Of the number of tickets donated, the MLB Commissioner's Community Initiative is contributing 85,000 tickets, while the DDA Tigers Ticket Donation Program is donating 50,000 tickets, specifically intended for youth-serving organizations in Detroit and Wayne County. As part of the DDA portion, 4,000 young people and their chaperones will receive a heightened experience, including complimentary transportation and food & beverage, through the Game Day For Kids program, which is presented by the Detroit Zoo, which has returned for 2026.

This initiative highlights the Tigers' commitment to making a positive impact to the community by providing opportunities for various groups to enjoy games at Comerica Park. Any eligible group interested in learning more about the Tigers’ community tickets program and applying for tickets can CLICK HERE today. Requests are reviewed and approved on a rolling basis, February through September. If you know of an organization that might be a good candidate to participate in the Game Day For Kids program, please email Community@Tigers.com for more information.

• Fans can enjoy new and unique giveaway items through gate giveaways and special ticket packages at more than 50 games this season

• Tigers celebrating several Marquee Weekends in 2026, including Opening Weekend, Strike Out Cancer, Black in Baseball, the 125th Anniversary and ¡Fiesta Tigres!

• Friday Night Party in the Park returns with themed parties featuring fireworks, live music and pregame food and beverage specials on the Comerica Landing

Single-game tickets for the highly anticipated 2026 Detroit Tigers season will go on sale this Friday, Feb. 13 at 10 a.m. at Tigers.com/Tickets.

Detroit’s Biggest Party, Opening Day, presented by Rocket, is scheduled for Friday, April 3 at Comerica Park against the St. Louis Cardinals with first pitch set for 1:10 p.m. Fans can guarantee a seat for Opening Day by securing a Tigers 1901 Society membership.

After opening the 2026 campaign on the road from March 26-April 1, the Tigers will begin their home slate against the Cardinals from April 3-5, including a nationally broadcast Sunday Night Baseball game on April 5. Detroit will host its first six-game homestand April 10-12 against the Miami Marlins and April 14-16 against the Kansas City Royals.

This season marks the 125th anniversary of the Tigers’ founding in 1901, and the club will commemorate the anniversary with a weekend-long celebration from July 24-26. Fans can also soon purchase a 125th Anniversary Five-Game Plan, which includes a Statue Replica giveaway for each game in the plan.

Fridays will again be a “Friday Night Party in the Park,” presented by Casamigos, featuring fireworks, live music and entertainment and pregame food and beverage specials on the Comerica Landing.

Value options are again available on select days this season, including 313 Value Tuesdays, featuring $3 hot dogs, $1 bags of chips and $3 soft drinks, and the Meijer Sunday Family Value Deal, which starts at $99 and includes four tickets, four hot dogs, four bags of chips and four fountain drinks.

For the second consecutive season, the Tigers are excited to host Sounds of Summer Postgame Concerts, presented by Rocket, on select Fridays, with chart-topping artists performing free concerts after the game. Sounds of Summer Postgame Concerts dates and artists will be announced later.

Marquee Weekends

• April 3-5 vs. St. Louis Cardinals | Opening Weekend

• May 15-17 vs. Toronto Blue Jays | Strike Out Cancer

• June 19-21 vs. Chicago White Sox | Black in Baseball

• July 24-26 vs. Kansas City Royals | 125th Anniversary Celebration

• Sept. 12-13 vs. Colorado Rockies | ¡Fiesta Tigres!

Gate Giveaways

The Tigers will provide special giveaway items to the first 15,000 fans in attendance on several weekend nights in 2026. Gate giveaways this season include replica jerseys, bobbleheads, unique hats, mugs and more. Specific items and more gate giveaway dates will be announced later.

• Saturday, April 4 vs. St. Louis Cardinals

• Saturday, April 11 vs. Miami Marlins

• Saturday, May 2 vs. Texas Rangers

• Saturday, May 16 vs. Toronto Blue Jays

• Friday, June 5 vs. Seattle Mariners

• Saturday, June 20 vs. Chicago White Sox

• Friday, June 26 vs. Houston Astros

• Saturday, July 25 vs. Kansas City Royals

• Sunday, Aug. 16 vs. Chicago White Sox

• Saturday, Sept. 12 vs. Colorado Rockies

• Saturday, Sept. 26 vs. Pittsburgh Pirates

Community Engagement Games

The Tigers are proud to engage with our community and celebrate several extraordinary groups and causes throughout each season. Each Community Engagement ticket package includes a special themed item (to be announced later).

• Saturday, May 16 vs. Toronto Blue Jays | Pink Out the Park, presented by Karmanos Cancer Institute

• Wednesday, May 20 vs. Cleveland Guardians | Law Enforcement

• Tuesday, June 9 vs. Minnesota Twins | Military Appreciation, presented by Chevrolet

• Saturday, June 20 vs. Chicago White Sox | Black in Baseball, presented by Comerica Bank

• Sunday, June 21 vs. Chicago White Sox | Father’s Day

• Tuesday, June 23 vs. New York Yankees | Pride

• Thursday, June 25 vs. Houston Astros | Educator Appreciation

• Sunday, July 12 vs. Philadelphia Phillies | Boy Scouts

• Sunday, Aug. 16 vs. Chicago White Sox | Girl Scouts

• Friday, Sept. 11 vs. Colorado Rockies | First Responders, presented by BELFOR Property Restoration

• Saturday, Sept. 26 vs. Pittsburgh Pirates | Union Day

Pop Culture Games

Several fan-favorite pop culture nights are set to return in 2026, each including a themed ticket package.

• Monday, May 4 vs. Boston Red Sox | Star Wars

• Tuesday, May 26 vs. Los Angeles Angels | Harry Potter

• Friday, June 5 vs. Seattle Mariners | Margaritaville

• Friday, June 26 vs. Houston Astros | Grateful Dead

Heritage Games

Detroit is truly a melting pot—home to several different cultures and heritages, and the Tigers are proud to celebrate our fans from all cultures throughout each season. Each Heritage ticket package includes a heritage-themed jersey giveaway.

• Sunday, April 12 vs. Miami Marlins | Jewish Heritage

• Tuesday, April 21 vs. Milwaukee Brewers | Macedonian Heritage

• Friday, May 1 vs. Texas Rangers | Polish Heritage

• Tuesday, May 5 vs. Boston Red Sox | Greek Heritage

• Sunday, May 17 vs. Toronto Blue Jays | Canadian Heritage

• Wednesday, June 10 vs. Minnesota Twins | Filipino Heritage

• Wednesday, Aug. 12 vs. Cleveland Guardians | Italian Heritage

• Saturday, Sept. 12 vs. Colorado Rockies | Hispanic Heritage

• Tuesday, Sept. 22 vs. Washington Nationals | Irish Heritage

College Games

Once again, the Tigers will celebrate local colleges and universities throughout the season. Each College Game ticket package includes a hooded T-shirt giveaway with the school’s colors and logo.

• Wednesday, April 22 vs. Milwaukee Brewers | Michigan State University

• Friday, June 19 vs. Chicago White Sox | Northern Michigan University

• Tuesday, June 23 vs. New York Yankees | Western Michigan University

• Thursday, July 23 vs. Kansas City Royals | Michigan Tech University

• Sunday, July 26 vs. Kansas City Royals | Saginaw Valley State University

• Tuesday, Aug. 11 vs. Cleveland Guardians | Eastern Michigan University

• Friday, Aug. 14 vs. Chicago White Sox | Central Michigan University

• Saturday, Aug. 15 vs. Chicago White Sox | Ferris State University

• Monday, Aug. 24 vs. Tampa Bay Rays | Lawrence Tech University

• Tuesday, Sept. 8 vs. Minnesota Twins | Wayne State University

• Friday, Sept. 11 vs. Colorado Rockies | Oakland University

• Friday, Sept. 25 vs. Pittsburgh Pirates | University of Michigan

Bark in the Park Games, presented by Strategic Staffing Solutions

Fans are again invited to bring their dog to Comerica Park for several Bark in the Park games this season! Bark in the Park ticket packages include a donation to Michigan Humane.

• Tuesday, April 21 vs. Milwaukee Brewers | Bark in the Park

• Tuesday, May 5 vs. Boston Red Sox | Bark in the Park

• Tuesday, Aug. 25 vs. Tampa Bay Rays | Bark in the Park

• Tuesday, Sept. 8 vs. Minnesota Twins | Bark in the Park

• Monday, Sept. 21 vs. Washington Nationals | Bark in the Park

Please Note: All promotional schedule dates, giveaways and quantities are subject to change.

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Ilitch Sports + Entertainment (IS+E), whose mission is to amaze, inspire and unite, has announced the promotion of two senior leaders from within the organization into expanded executive roles. These moves reinforce IS+E’s commitment to developing top talent, strengthening its leadership bench, and delivering world-class experiences for fans, guests, and partners across its teams, venues, and live events.

Spencer Ambrosius has been promoted to Chief Consumer Revenue Officer. In this elevated role, Ambrosius will lead and integrate all consumer-facing revenue strategies across IS+E’s multi-team, multi-venue portfolio. He will continue oversee ticketing and premium sales and service, while guiding broader consumer revenue streams including retail, food and beverage, and parking. Reporting to the President & CEO, Ambrosius will drive revenue growth, enhance the fan experience, and align sales and operations around a unified consumer strategy.

Ambrosius has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s ticket sales strategy and driving significant revenue results, including strong performance at the Detroit Tigers in 2026. His achievements include selling out premium inventory at Little Caesars Arena, launching the Priority Club at Comerica Park, enhancing single-game ticket pricing through analytics, and restructuring teams for greater efficiency. Known for his collaborative leadership style, he has built high-performing teams and fostered a culture of innovation and accountability.

Joe Schiavi has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Ticket Sales & Service. Schiavi will oversee all seating products, including season tickets, partial plans, individual tickets, and group sales. Continuing to report to Ambrosius, he will to execute sales strategies that deliver revenue targets, maximize margins, manage budgets, and strengthen collaboration across the organization.

Schiavi has successfully led the ticket sales department through significant restructuring, delivering record revenue growth, improved profitability, and cost efficiencies. His focus on leadership development and team culture has created a more cohesive and engaged organization. Under his direction, the Detroit Tigers achieved the top attendance growth in Major League Baseball since 2023, while overall attendance and revenue for both the Tigers and Detroit Red Wings have increased substantially.

“These promotions reflect the significant impact and leadership Spencer and Joe have demonstrated within our organization,” said Ryan Gustafson, President and CEO of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “Their vision, results-driven approach, and commitment to the fan experience have helped shape our success. By elevating proven leaders from within, we are positioning IS+E to accelerate growth and deliver even more innovative and engaging experiences for our fans, partners, and communities.”

Ilitch Sports + Entertainment remains committed to investing in strong leadership and internal talent development to drive growth and lead in an increasingly competitive sports and entertainment landscape.

This month, volunteers from the Ilitch Companies partnered with a local nonprofit organization to help keep Detroiters warm in the cold winter months. Mittens for Detroit collects, purchases, and distributes gloves and mittens to children, teens, and adults in Detroit and surrounding areas. Executive Director Wendy Shepherd expressed that their organization heavily depends on volunteers.

“The only reason that Mittens for Detroit has been around since November 2010 is because we have such great support from the community,” said Shepherd. “This year, we had 500 volunteers to process gloves out, which means that together, we’re warming the hearts and hands of Detroiters.”

Colleagues took part in the organization’s annual Big Sort event, where Mittens and Gloves are sorted and boxed up for delivery. The mittens that Ilitch Companies volunteers sorted and packed went to elementary schools throughout Pontiac. Little Caesars colleague, Angela Borden, joined in on the volunteer project.

“It feels really good to be here helping out, especially with the temperatures being in the single digits. I can't imagine what it would be like to not have gloves or mittens on,” said Borden. “So it's really heartwarming that we're able to help out in the community that we're a part of, to make sure that kids and adults and teens all have hand protection at a time like this, especially.”

The Ilitch Companies Colleague Engagement Program continues to provide opportunities for colleagues to get out into the community, support local charities, and make a meaningful difference through hands-on service.

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The Detroit Tigers unveiled The Press Club, an exclusive premium hospitality destination that will elevate the gameday experience at Comerica Park. Designed for just two dozen guests per game, The Press Club delivers an intimate, all-inclusive offering defined by personalized service, elevated cuisine, and an unparalleled level of comfort and access.

Located adjacent to the ballpark’s working media press box, The Press Club provides a unique vantage point where many of the Tigers’ most memorable moments have been covered by local and national journalists and broadcasters, creating an experience that is both exclusive and unlike any other.

This private, climate-controlled space features sliding windows, giving guests the option to take in fresh air and ballpark atmosphere on perfect days, or enjoy a comfortable indoor setting with live radio broadcast audio during hotter summer games and cooler fall evenings. Premium VIP parking near a dedicated entrance is included, offering guests a refined way to experience Tigers baseball from one of the most distinctive perspectives in Detroit sports.

The Press Club access opens two hours prior to first pitch, and upon arrival, members are welcomed by hospitality staff with a signature cocktail or mocktail and escorted to their seats, where appetizers and a printed menu are provided. Dining service will be designed to reflect a fine-dining, high-end menu concept complete with rotating entrée selections and dessert, along with ongoing beverage service including wine, beer, cocktails and non-alcoholic options.

In addition to the personalized service of The Press Club itself, members enjoy all-access privileges to other premium club spaces on the same level. Fans may visit the Champions Club to enjoy additional cuisine or stop by the all-new MotorCity Casino Hotel Tiger Club for classic ballpark fare with convenient access to The D Shop at the Comerica Landing for gameday merchandise.

Across Comerica Park, the Tigers offer a variety of premium membership spaces designed to suit a wide range of experiences and budgets, providing fans with flexible options to enjoy the ballpark in ways that best fit their needs.

For more information on availability and premium membership opportunities, visit Tigers.com.

Throughout each season, nearly 1,000 event staff colleagues enthusiastically commit their time and energy to make each Ilitch Sports + Entertainment event a memorable experience for fans – and many of these colleagues have been part of the organization for multiple seasons.

To thank them for their incredible service, Ilitch Sports + Entertainment leadership hosted more than 800 event colleagues from Little Caesars Arena, the Fox Theatre and Olympia Parking on Jan. 6 for a special evening at Little Caesars Arena, filled with laughter, camaraderie and a shared love for events.

“We are so proud of the hard work that went into the planning and execution of the Event Colleague Annual Celebration,” said Ilitch Sports + Entertainment Vice President of Guest Strategy Amanda Vought. “It took departments and colleagues from across the company to pull everything together and our Event Colleagues were so appreciative of the thought and details that went into the party. The Guest Strategy team is grateful for the support of all full-time colleagues who volunteered to help during planning and the party itself.”

Nearly 100 full-time colleagues were involved in planning the event, which included a gourmet buffet dinner, Bingo, Trivia, shooting hoops on the Pistons’ court and a raffle with 55 exciting prizes.

Several Ilitch Sports + Entertainment leaders attended the event to thank these dedicated colleagues for their hard work, passion and grit, including Chris Coffman, Michele Bartos, Tim Padgett, Jim Bullo, Mike Hartnett, Amanda Vought, Bruce Trout, Jennifer Tompos and more.

Tigers open 2026 Grapefruit League home schedule on February 22 vs. Baltimore Orioles

15-game home schedule includes seven weekend matchups at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, Florida

The Detroit Tigers begin their 2026 Spring Training home schedule on February 22, and fans can purchase single-game tickets for Spring Training games at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, Florida, starting Saturday, December 13 at 10 a.m. ET.

To purchase Spring Training single-game tickets, fans can visit Tigers.com/Spring, call 863-686-8075 or visit the Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium ticket office in person. Game times are 1:05 p.m., except the Friday, March 13 matchup against the Pittsburgh Pirates slated for 6:05 p.m. For the complete Tigers Spring Training schedule, visit www.mlb.com/tigers/schedule/2026-02.

This spring will mark the Tigers’ 61st consecutive season at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium and the 90th campaign at TigerTown in Lakeland, extending the longest current relationship between a Major League Baseball team and a Spring Training host city.

Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium has been voted the best ballpark in the Grapefruit League and boasts several fan-friendly features, including a 360-degree walkable concourse to enjoy average temperatures in the high 70s, an interactive children’s play area, all-inclusive indoor/outdoor seating and more while fans watch current and future Tigers stars.

“We are extremely excited for the Tigers to once again host Spring Training games at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium,” Vice President of Lakeland Business Operations Andy Dunn said. “Tigers fans from throughout the country ascend on Lakeland every year for Spring Training, and we look forward to making the 90th spring in TigerTown the best experience yet for the fans and players.”

The Tigers will begin their 2026 Grapefruit League home schedule on Sunday, February 22 against the Baltimore Orioles before hosting the American League Central Division-rival Minnesota Twins on Monday, February 23.

The Tigers open March with another back-to-back home set, hosting the American League-champion Toronto Blue Jays on Sunday, March 1 before facing the Atlanta Braves on Monday, March 2. On Wednesday, March 4, the Tigers will host Team Panama to celebrate the start of the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Other notable Spring Training home games include Friday, March 6 against the Boston Red Sox, Thursday, March 12 against the New York Yankees, a St. Patrick’s Day game against the Orioles on Tuesday, March 17 and a second home matchup with the Yankees on Saturday, March 21.

Tickets for 2026 Spring Training home games are priced at four levels: Grey, Navy, Orange and White.

Grey games: March 12 and 21--Reserved Seating Starting at $39

Navy games: Feb. 22, March 1, 6, 7, 9, 13, 16 and 17--Reserved Seating Starting at $32

Orange games: Feb. 25, 27 and March 2--Reserved Seating Starting at $26

White games: Feb. 23 and March 4--Reserved Seating Starting at $21

The Tigers are now accepting deposits towards the purchase of new season tickets for the 2026 Spring Training season in Lakeland. Secure your spot to catch all 15 home games with just a $100 per-seat deposit.

Celebration to feature expanded fan experiences and exclusive collectibles; Exclusive “Ninety One: A Salute to Sergei Fedorov” book presale begins Jan. 1, with in-arena and autographed sales available during event on Jan. 12

The Detroit Red Wings today announced fan details for Sergei Fedorov Jersey Retirement Night, presented by Meijer, on Monday, Jan. 12 when the Red Wings host the Carolina Hurricanes at Little Caesars Arena.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in franchise history, Fedorov won three Stanley Cup championships during his 13 seasons in Detroit and ranks among the Red Wings’ top seven all-time leaders in goals, assists and points. He will become the ninth player in franchise history to have his jersey retired.

The celebration will feature several NHL legends in attendance, special concourse activations, in-arena tributes and multiple fan engagement opportunities honoring one of the most iconic players to ever wear the Winged Wheel.

An exclusive tribute book called “Ninety One: A Salute to Sergei Fedorov” will be available for purchase during the event, with presale access beginning Jan. 1 only at ShopHockeytown.com. The book was written by longtime Red Wings columnist Bob Duff and details Fedorov’s defection from Russia to join the Red Wings, his iconic skill and style and his lasting impact on Hockeytown and the NHL.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sergei Fedorov back to Detroit as his No. 91 jersey takes its rightful place in the rafters at Little Caesars Arena,” said Ilitch Sports + Entertainment President & CEO Ryan Gustafson. “Sergei is one of the most iconic players of all time, and our passionate fans will have numerous opportunities on Jan. 12 to celebrate his incredible career as he joins the other eight legends who have worn the Winged Wheel to have their numbers retired.”

Little Caesars Arena doors will open at 4:20 p.m., more than an hour earlier than usual, with puck drop set for 7:15 p.m. Fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 5:35 p.m. to experience the full jersey retirement ceremony.

Jan. 12 Timeline

• 4:20 p.m. – Arena doors open

• 5:35 p.m. – Fans encouraged to be in seats

• 7:11 p.m. – Ceremonial puck drop by Fedorov

• 7:15 p.m. – Game begins

Fan Engagement & Special Activations

• Tribute Book: “Ninety One: A Salute to Sergei Fedorov” available for purchase

• Presale begins Jan. 1 at ShopHockeytown.com ahead of the official release on Jan. 12

• On Jan. 12, ticketed fans will have an exclusive opportunity to purchase autographed copies at the Little Caesars Arena Team Store and on the Via Concourse

• Forever Fedorov Ultimate Fan Experience Contest (From Dec. 28 – Jan. 6) which includes:

           Two all-inclusive Labatt Club tickets and one parking pass for Jan. 12

            Two seats at a pregame Rinkside Chat and a meet-and-greet with Fedorov

            Two copies of “Ninety One: A Salute to Sergei Fedorov”

            Two exclusive Fedorov merchandise items

            Fans can enter HERE or visit DetroitRedWings.com/ForeverFedorov

• Commemorative “91” lapel pins for fans entering the arena

• Trophy Display: The Stanley Cup, Hart Memorial Trophy, Frank J. Selke Trophy and Lester B. Pearson Trophy on display near the Team Store by the Meijer Entry SW

• “91” Fan Section: Dedicated lower-bowl section on the east side of the arena will feature white “91” numerals formed by white T-shirts, with red shirts filling the remainder of the section

• Fans encouraged to wear the shirts throughout the game

• Limited-edition Fedorov merchandise available at the Team Store and on ShopHockeytown.com

• Augmented Reality activation to engage fans in-arena and at home

Limited tickets remain HERE.

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by Josh Berenter for DetroitRedWings.com