• As Selected by the Detroit Chapter of the Baseball Writers Association of America

Spencer Torkelson has been named Tiger of the Year as voted on by members of the Detroit chapter of the Baseball Writers Association of America, receiving 15 of the 25 votes cast. Kerry Carpenter, Eduardo Rodriguez, Jake Rogers and Tarik Skubal also received at least one vote.

Torkelson, who is one of four finalists for the Silver Slugger Award among American League first basemen, appeared in a team-high 159 games in 2023, batting .233/.313/.446 with 34 doubles, one triple, 31 home runs and 94 RBI. His 31 homers ranked tied for eighth in the AL and were the most in a season by a Tigers player since Miguel Cabrera (38) and Justin Upton (31) in 2016.

Torkelson became the first player in franchise history to have 30-or-more doubles, 30-or-more homers and 90-or-more RBI in his age-23 season. Among Major League players in their age-23 season or younger in 2023, Torkelson ranked second in home runs and doubles and third in RBI.

From June 27 until the end of the season, Torkelson posted an .851 OPS with 17 doubles, one triple, 23 home runs and 60 RBI. He was tied for the American League lead and ranked tied for sixth in the Majors in home runs during that span, while he was third in the AL in RBI, tied for fifth in extra-base hits (41) and 10^th in slugging percentage (.524).

The Detroit BBWAA has selected a Tiger of the Year each season dating back to 1965.

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• As Selected by the Detroit Sports Media Association

Lefthanded pitcher Tyler Holton has been named Tigers Rookie of the Year as voted on by members of the Detroit Sports Media Association. Outfielder Parker Meadows came in second place, while righthanded pitcher Reese Olson finished in third.

Holton pitched in 59 games, including one start, in his first season with the Tigers, posting a 3-2 record with a 2.11 ERA (85.1IP/20ER) and 74 strikeouts. He finished the season with a 0.87 WHIP, which led all American League relievers and ranked second in the Majors (min. 50.0 innings pitched) and, according to the Elias Sports Bureau, was the lowest by any Tigers reliever in franchise history with at least 60.0 innings pitched in a season.

Holton also was tied for the lead among all Major League relievers with 84.1 innings thrown in relief, while he ranked second among AL relievers (min. 50.0 innings) in walks per 9.0 innings (1.81) and seventh in ERA (2.13) as a reliever. Of Holton’s 59 appearances during the season, 33 were for multiple innings, which was the second-highest total in the Majors, trailing only Chris Stratton, who had 36 such outings.

Holton was named Tigers Pitcher of the Month for August, appearing in 12 games and posting a 3-0 record with one save, a 2.25 ERA (16.0IP/4ER) and 15 strikeouts. He did not allow a run in 11 of his 12 outings during the month, while 10 of his 12 appearances were hitless.

Holton is the first pitcher to be named Tigers Rookie of the Year since Michael Fulmer in 2016 and the first relief pitcher to win the award since Al Alburquerque In 2011.

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Little Caesars, a leading pizza chain known for quality, value, and convenience, announced today the launch of its new Detroit-style Slices-N-Stix across New York City locations. Debuting ahead of Little Caesars latest store opening in Queens, Detroit-Style Slices-N-Stix is just $4.99 * and the perfect meal for the fast-paced New York lifestyle.

The combo includes two generous slices of Detroit-style deep-dish pizza, topped with savory pepperoni, and complemented by four pieces of Italian Cheese Bread – all served with Little Caesars signature Crazy Sauce®. This product will be exclusive to New York City stores and available at all participating locations throughout the five boroughs.

“We know this city takes its pizza seriously, and we’re now giving New Yorkers an opportunity to taste something a little different. Whether you’re born and raised in Detroit, Chicago, or New York, we know that New York City residents and visitors will love the unique flavor of Detroit-Style Slices-N-Stix,” said Greg Hamilton, Chief Marketing Officer at Little Caesars. “Pizza enthusiasts throughout NYC savor every detail from the cheese to the sauce to the crust. We’re excited to witness Little Caesars fans enjoying a quick meal on the go as they head to the subway, a show, or even on their walk home.”

Little Caesars newest menu item showcases the brand’s continued commitment to growing its following in the Big Apple. The brand is also seeking further expansion across the Tri-State area and is looking for accomplished multi-unit franchisees with extensive QSR experience to help grow its presence.

Little Caesars is a family-owned company with more than 60 years of experience and a steadfast commitment to innovation. Nearly 20 years ago, the brand revolutionized the global pizza industry with its signature HOT-N-READY pizza, which gives customers the easy and quick option to stop in and carry out a freshly made, piping-hot, large pizza without waiting or ordering ahead.

More recently, Little Caesars introduced the cutting-edge Pizza Portal® pick up to provide service and convenience on demand to keep up with the city’s bustling consumers. The technology streamlines the ordering and pickup process, enabling customers to place their orders through the Little Caesars app and then bypass the counter, picking up directly from the Pizza Portal. In addition to Pizza Portal Pickup, guests across NYC locations can order Little Caesars for delivery via the Little Caesars website or mobile app.  

For more information about Little Caesars and Detroit-Style Slices-N-Stix, visit LittleCaesars.com and follow @LittleCaesars on social.

*Plus tax where applicable. Available at participating locations. Prices may vary. Prices higher in AK, HI and third-party online sites.

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There’s no Who-Pudding or rare Who-Roast Beast on the menu, but JoJo’s ShakeBAR is featuring a limited-edition Grinch Shake available Friday, November 3 through Sunday, November 12 in celebration of the engagement of Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical playing at the Fox Theatre November 8-12, with the Grinch himself making an appearance at JoJo’s for photos with guests on Saturday, November 4 at 6 p.m.

The Grinch Shake is a green peppermint shake topped with a Christmas tree sugar cookie, chocolate covered pretzel, chocolate covered Oreo and finished off with whipped topping covered in red and green sprinkles.

JoJo’s ShakeBAR, located at 88 W. Columbia St. in The District Detroit, is a next-generation restaurant and bar, and The District Detroit’s go-to spot for hangouts, first dates and family affairs. Grounded in nostalgia, JoJo’s ShakeBAR features 80s/90s-inspired details, like arcade game tables and walk-up window for sports fans on the run. The menu includes over-the-top Biggie Shakes, classic diner fare, cocktails and decadent desserts.

Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical appears at the Fox Theatre for eight performances Wednesday, November 8 – Sunday, November 12 as part of the 2023-24 Fox Theatre Series presented by Comerica Bank. The record-setting Broadway holiday sensation features the hit songs “You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas” from the original animated special. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” decides to steal Christmas away from the Holiday loving Whos. Magnificent sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original illustrations help transport audiences to the whimsical world of Whoville and helps remind us of the true meaning of the holiday season. Tickets are on sale now at 313Presents.com and Ticketmaster.com.

Performance Schedule:

Wednesday, November 8          7:30 p.m.

Thursday, November 9              7:30 p.m.

Friday, November 10                 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, November 11             12:30 p.m., 4 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, November 12               1 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.

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• Tickets Go On Sale Friday, November 10 at 10 a.m.

Global rock superstars Green Day – Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt and Tré Cool – have officially shared details on their massive 2024 global stadium tour with support from illustrious rock luminaries The Smashing Pumpkins, Rancid, and The Linda Lindas. The Saviors Tour, fueled by Monster Energy, kicks off with the European run on May 30 in Monte De Gozo, Spain and travels through France, Germany and Italy, before reaching the UK, including a huge London show at the legendary Wembley Stadium on June 29. The North American run, produced by Live Nation, begins shortly after and includes a stop at Comerica Park on Wednesday, September 4 at 5:30 p.m.

Tickets go on sale Friday, November 10 at 10 a.m. and can be purchased at 313Presents.com, Livenation.com, Ticketmaster.com.

Tickets will be available starting with a Citi presale (details below) beginning on Tuesday, November 7. Additionally, fans can sign up for Green Day’s mailing list by Tuesday, November 7 to get first access to presale tickets. More pre-sales will run throughout the week ahead of the general onsale beginning on Friday, November 10 at 10am local time at greenday.com

• CITI PRESALE: Citi is the official card of The Saviors Tour. Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets beginning Tuesday, November 7 at 10 a.m. local time until Thursday, November 9 at 10 p.m. local time through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com.
  
• VIP: The tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets, guided tours on stage, access to Green Day Hospitality Lounge, VIP entry, exclusive merch packages and more. For more information, visit greenday.com

Green Day shared, “We’ve never been more excited to unleash new music than with Saviors, a record that’s meant to be rocked live, together. So let’s thrash. We’ve got some amazing friends who are coming along for the ride!”

The tour will be a larger-than-life, career-spanning celebration of one of the biggest musical acts of all time and some of the most important albums in history. This year marks the 30th anniversary of Green Day’s 1994 certified Diamond album, Dookie, and the 20th anniversary of 2004’s juggernaut, American Idiot. Each a cultural phenomenon in its own right, these albums have remained at the forefront of punk culture since their release. With blazing guitars and electrifying vocals, Green Day are ready to bring their mind-blowing collection of hits to stadiums across the country, along with plenty of additions from their newly announced album, Saviors.

Green Day began dropping hints about their soon-to-be 14th studio album, Saviors, at a surprise show at Las Vegas’ Fremont Country Club, surrounded by a crowd of 800 die-hard fans. During their Las Vegas takeover, which also included commanding headline performances at When We Were Young festival, the band debuted two killer new tracks: the first single “The American Dream Is Killing Me” and the brand new “Look Ma, No Brains!,” out today. Watch the accompanying video HERE, directed by Ryan Baxley and Brendan Walter. Fans got another chance to hear the new music during Green Day’s headlining Amazon Music Live concert series performance on October 26, which included the two releases along with crowd favorites from their extensive discography. With a brand new album and a nationwide stadium tour on the horizon, Green Day are ready for total domination.

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Throughout the Detroit Tigers season at Comerica Park, nearly 1,000 individuals on the event staff enthusiastically commit their time and energy to make each game day 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 colleagues for a special evening at the ballpark in October, filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a shared love for the game.

“We appreciate all that our part-time colleagues do to make every Comerica Park experience inspiring for our guests,” said Tim Padgett, Senior Vice President, Venue Operations for Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “As the ballpark season came to a close, we wanted to invite our colleagues and their families in for an evening of fun as a way to express our gratitude.”

The News Hub team caught up with a few colleagues during the Comerica Park event and asked what their favorite part of their job is. Here’s what they had to say.

Carol Szwabowski, Usher, 11 years:

“I love interacting with people. I love the game of baseball. It’s just an all-around fun job that you really get to sit down, enjoy the weather outside, enjoy the team, enjoy the fans. It’s just a great place to work. I love it.”

Steve Nelson, Usher, three years:

“It’s clearly the interaction with the fans. The Tigers are a big part of my life. They have been my whole life. So to be able to come here and work and hopefully instill that same kind of passion for the team and the city that I developed following the team for all these years, that’s my biggest joy.”

Jeffrey Nowosielski, Usher, one year

“The atmosphere of a sporting event is exciting, and I love to help bring that every time. I’m always smiling when I’m here. The energy is insane. Even when there’s 15,000 people, there’s always someone here, a young kid or an older person that just might be their first baseball game. I try to bring excitement, even if just a smile, to the fans.”

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David Young, Janitor, seven years:

“I like the access. A memorable event was two years ago. I’m doing a concert, Guns ‘N Roses, and everybody knows that Slash is my favorite. I got a chance to help set up for the event. When I went downstairs, I saw Slash’s furniture, and I saw him at a distance with his crew. I almost fainted.”

Dave McNamara, Usher, 17 years:

“It’s been a great 17 years. We had the World Series here. We were here on a 42-degree night. Zooey Deschanel sang the national anthem. I worked in the lower bowl for about 12 or 14 years. I have so many special moments and memories. I love it.”

Stephanie Ruthenburg, Usher Supervisor, six years:

“I like to help. If someone says, ‘Hey, my aunt is here, it’s her first time at the ballpark.’ I say, ‘What can I do for her?’ Let’s go over there. Let’s get a first-game certificate. Let me go into the ‘magic closet’ and see if I can get a baseball for you. I get to make people smile.”

Cathy Grzecki, Gate Supervisor, 21 years:

“Absolutely the fans are the best part of the job, and the overall ballpark experience. My favorite memory was when we won the ALCS. I was working right behind the Tigers’ dugout when Miggy hit the home run, and fans just kind of crashed into this stadium and celebrated the team. It was just electrifying.”

“Our colleagues are a vital part of why Comerica Park is such an amazing place for Detroit sports and entertainment fans,” Padgett said. “We’re grateful that they continue to help us amaze, inspire and unite our guests at every event.”

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• Leading Pizza Chain Partners with Experienced Franchisees to Add New Locations

Little Caesars, the third largest pizza chain in the world, announced today the signing of franchise development agreements that will add 15 new locations across two of the brand’s target markets. Led by two different franchisees, the developments are set to expand the brand’s presence in Boston and Chicago. Little Caesars, known for quality, value, and convenience, has experienced consistent growth with both new and existing franchisees, a testament to the chain’s effective business model and brand strength.

The franchisees leading the brand’s latest developments include:

• Pritpal Bains and Haranchal Bains, who have operated Little Caesars restaurants in California since 1999 and plan to establish five new locations throughout Boston by 2027.

• Karim Khowaja and Sanjeev Khatau, who have more than 40 years of combined experience in restaurant franchising and are acquiring two existing Little Caesars locations in Chicago. They plan to open ten additional restaurants in the city. The pair operates nearly 100 quick-service concepts in Illinois, Michigan, Iowa, and California.

“As our expansion gains momentum nationwide, we are eager to build upon our partnerships with experienced multi-unit operators like Pritpal and Haranchal while developing new relationships with industry veterans like Karim and Sanjeev,” said Little Caesars Chief Development Officer Jeremy Vitaro. “I’m confident in their enthusiasm for Little Caesars and their passion for their respective communities in Boston and Chicago. We look forward to supporting each group as they build their new restaurants.”

Little Caesars is amplifying its expansion into major cities, including its recent commitment to establish 100 new locations in New York City and the Tri-State region.

The established brand is actively pursuing ambitious operating partners to help propel development efforts in targeted markets nationwide. Little Caesars offers franchisees a convenience-driven business model and an efficient, proven concept that keeps operating costs low and margins high.

Multi-unit franchising opportunities remain in regions across the U.S., including the Northeast and Pacific Northwest. Little Caesars franchising also offers incentive programs available for veterans and first responders.

For more information, interested candidates can visit franchise.littlecaesars.com.

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As schools welcomed students back for another year, the Detroit Tigers invited education leaders onto the field at Comerica Park to recognize them for the important contributions they make to the state of Michigan. The presidents of the University of Michigan and Wayne State University and the superintendent of the Detroit Public Schools Community District were selected to throw out first pitches at Tigers games this fall.  

Supporting education has long been a priority for the Detroit Tigers and entire Ilitch organization. This takes shape in a number of ways, from celebrating educators and students during special school-themed Detroit Tigers and Red Wings games, ongoing partnerships with schools and universities, donations and volunteerism, and hands-on experience for students such as internships programs and in-school learning initiatives.

Santa Ono, the 15^th president of the University of Michigan, began his tenure in October 2022. With a background in immunology, Ono previously served as the president of the University of British Columbia. He was appointed by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer to serve on the Executive Committee of Michigan Economic Development Corporation and the Growing Michigan Together Council.  

Kimberly Andrews Espy became Wayne State University’s 13^th president on Aug. 1, 2023, and is the school’s first female president. With more than 25 years of experience in higher education, Espy previously served as provost and senior vice president of academic affairs at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA).  Wayne State, located in The District Detroit, is home to the Mike Ilitch School of Business and recently awarded Marian Ilitch an honorary doctorate.

Dr. Nikolai Vitti is the second-longest serving superintendent in the history of the Detroit Public Schools Community District, which has a long-standing relationship with Ilitch Companies, with partnerships ranging from a summer internship program for Cass Tech students to the annual Evening of Fine Arts at the Fox Theatre.

In addition to other ongoing initiatives, each year, students from University of Michigan, Wayne State and the Detroit Public Schools Community District also participate in Olympia Development of Michigan and Related Companies’ Project Destined internship program.

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With hundreds of events across six sports and entertainment venues, Ilitch Sports + Entertainment event colleagues play a critical role in amazing, inspiring and uniting millions of guests each year. These incredible colleagues work in a diverse array of roles, including ushers, security, parking, in-venue entertainment and much more. Their dedication to providing a tremendous guest experience shines through in all that they do.

Meet Dejah Ecckles, Box Office Representative at Little Caesars Arena:

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