
Red Wings Sign Michael Hutchinson to One-Year Contract
December 18, 2023
The Detroit Red Wings today signed goaltender Michael Hutchinson to a one-year, two-way contract for the remainder of the 2023-24 season.
Hutchinson, 33, has spent the 2023-24 season with the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins, posting a 5-7-1 record with a 2.98 goals-against average, an 0.895 save percentage and one shutout in 13 games. The 6-foot-3, 201-pound netminder also appeared in two preseason contests with the Red Wings while signed to a professional tryout. Hutchinson split the 2022-23 campaign between the AHL’s Henderson Silver Knights and the Columbus Blue Jackets, making seven appearances with the Silver Knights before playing in 16 NHL games with the Blue Jackets. Originally selected by the Boston Bruins in the third round (77th overall) of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, Hutchinson has compiled a 57-61-18 record with a 2.93 goals-against average, a 0.902 save percentage and six shutouts in 153 NHL games with the Winnipeg Jets, Florida Panthers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Colorado Avalanche and Blue Jackets since 2013-14. Additionally, Hutchinson has built a 111-78-21 record with a 2.60 goals-against average, a 0.915 save percentage and 16 shutouts in 222 AHL games with the Providence Bruins, St. John’s IceCaps, Manitoba Moose, Toronto Marlies, Springfield Thunderbirds, Silver Knights and Griffins, participating in the 2018 AHL All-Star Classic and earning a place on the AHL Second All-Star Team in 2017-18.
A native of Barrie, Ont., Hutchinson played four seasons in the Ontario Hockey League with the Barrie Colts and London Knights from 2006-10 prior to turning professional. Hutchinson played his final major junior season with London in 2009-10, posting a 32-12-2 record with a 2.86 goals-against average, a 0.913 save percentage and three shutouts in 46 appearances. In total, Hutchinson accumulated a 67-50-7 record with a 2.87 goals-against average, a 0.915 save percentage and nine shutouts in 130 OHL contests. On the international stage, Hutchinson represented Team Canada at the 2022 Spengler Cup, appearing in two games at the tournament held annually in Davos, Switzerland.



Detroit Red Wings Assign Austin Czarnik to Grand Rapids
December 17, 2023
The Detroit Red Wings today assigned center Austin Czarnik to the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins. Additionally, the Red Wings have activated center Dylan Larkin from injured reserve.
Czarnik, 31, has skated in 15 games with the Red Wings this season, recording one assist, six penalty minutes and 12 shots in 8:33 average time on ice. The 5-foot-9, 167-pound forward has also collected seven points (3-4-7) and six penalty minutes in nine games with the Griffins to begin the 2023-24 season. Czarnik split the 2022-23 campaign between the Red Wings and Griffins, notching five points (3-2-5) and eight penalty minutes in 29 games with Detroit, in addition to 37 points (14-23-37) and eight penalty minutes in 43 games with Grand Rapids. Originally signed as an undrafted free agent by the Boston Bruins on March 31, 2015, Czarnik has played in parts of eight NHL seasons with the Bruins, Calgary Flames, New York Islanders, Seattle Kraken and Red Wings, totaling 51 points (18-33-51) and 34 penalty minutes in 186 games since 2016-17. He has also compiled 269 points (98-171-269), a plus-22 rating and 100 penalty minutes in 279 AHL games with the Providence Bruins, Stockton Heat, Bridgeport Islanders and Griffins. Czarnik paced all AHL rookies with 61 points (20-41-61) in 68 games during the 2015-16 season and went on to represent Providence at the 2018 AHL All-Star Classic.
A native of Washington Township, Mich., Czarnik played four seasons at Miami University from 2011-15 prior to turning professional, serving as team captain during his junior and senior years. In all, Czarnik accumulated 169 points (46-123-169), a plus-50 rating and 119 penalty minutes in 159 games with the RedHawks and was a Hobey Baker Award finalist as a sophomore in 2012-13. Before joining the RedHawks, Czarnik spent the 2010-11 season with the Green Bay Gamblers of the United States Hockey League, posting 34 points (20-14-34) and 33 penalty minutes in 46 contests. He previously skated with the U.S. National Team Development Program from 2008-10. On the international stage, Czarnik represented Team USA at the 2012 IIHF World Junior Championship, notching four points (2-2-4) in six games. Czarnik earned a gold medal at the 2010 IIHF World Under-18 Championship after recording six points (5-1-6), a plus-seven rating and four penalty minutes in seven games, and also won a bronze medal at the 2009 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge after collecting four points (1-3-4) in five appearances.

Tigers Sign RHP Jack Flaherty to One-Year Contract
December 16, 2023
The Detroit Tigers have signed righthanded pitcher Jack Flaherty to a one-year contract worth $14 million. Flaherty’s contract also includes performance bonuses that can increase his base salary up to $1 million for games started during the season: $250,000 for 26 starts, $250,000 for 28 starts and $500,000 for 30 starts.
Flaherty, 28, combined to pitch in 29 games, including 27 starts, between St. Louis and Baltimore in 2023, posting an 8-9 record with a 4.99 ERA (144.1IP/80ER) and 148 strikeouts. He also made pitched 2.0 innings for the Orioles during the American League Division Series vs. Texas.

Flaherty put together his best big league season in 2019 with the Cardinals, finishing fourth in voting for the National League Cy Young Award and 13th for NL Most Valuable Player after compiling an 11-8 record with a 2.75 ERA (196.1IP/60ER) and 231 strikeouts in 33 starts. He led all NL pitchers with a 0.97 WHIP and .192 opponent batting average, while he ranked tied for third with 33 starts, fourth with a 2.75 ERA, sixth with 231 strikeouts and eighth with 196.1 innings pitched. He earned second team All-MLB honors and was NL Pitcher of the Month twice during the season.
In his first full Major League season in 2018, Flaherty finished fifth in NL Rookie of the Year voting after going 8-9 with a 3.34 ERA (151.0IP/56ER) and 182 strikeouts in 28 starts.
In seven Major League seasons, Flaherty has a 42-34 record with a 3.75 ERA (667.2IP/278ER) and 748 strikeouts in 131 career appearances, including 125 starts. He has reached the postseason three times in his career, posting a 3.60 ERA (25.0IP/10ER) and 31 strikeouts in five appearances, including four starts.
A native of Burbank, CA, Flaherty was originally selected by St. Louis with the 34th overall pick of the 2014 MLB Draft. With the signing of Flaherty, the Tigers 40-man roster is now at 40.

2024 Detroit Tigers Spring Training Single-Game Tickets on Sale Now
December 13, 2023
The Detroit Tigers begin their 2024 Spring Training schedule in just 67 days, and fans in metro Detroit and across central Florida can now purchase single-game tickets for Spring Training home games at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in sunny Lakeland, Fla.
To purchase Spring Training single-game tickets, fans can call 863-686-8075, visit Tigers.com/Spring or visit the Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium ticket office in person. All game times are at 1:05 p.m., unless otherwise noted below.
This spring will mark the Tigers’ 59th consecutive season at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium and the 88th 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 get a glimpse at 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 Josh Bullock said. “The Tigers are proud of our longstanding relationship with Lakeland, and we look forward to making the 88th spring in TigerTown the best one yet for the fans and players.”
The Tigers will begin their 2024 Grapefruit League schedule at home on Saturday, Feb. 24 against the New York Yankees. The club then hosts back-to-back matchups on February 26 against the Houston Astros and on February 27 against the Toronto Blue Jays.
The Tigers open March with another back-to-back home set, hosting the Philadelphia Phillies on March 1 before facing the Pittsburgh Pirates on March 2.
Other Spring Training home games include March 4 against the Boston Red Sox, March 7 against Toronto (6:05 p.m.), March 9 against Pittsburgh, March 12 against the Minnesota Twins, March 14 against the Yankees, March 15 against the Atlanta Braves, March 17 against the Baltimore Orioles, March 19 against Philadelphia (6:05 p.m.), March 21 against the New York Mets, March 23 against the Yankees and March 24 against the Tampa Bay Rays.
Tickets for 2024 Spring Training home games are priced at four levels: Grey, Navy, Orange and White.
Grey games: March 14 and 24–Reserved Seating Starting at $35
Navy games: February 24, March 4, 12, 15, 17, 19 and 21–Reserved Seating Starting at $30
Orange games: February 26, March 1, 2, 9 and 23–Reserved Seating Starting at $25
White games: February 27, March 7–Reserved Seating Starting at $21
The Tigers are now accepting deposits towards the purchase of new season tickets for the 2024 Spring Training season in Lakeland. Secure your spot to catch all 16 home games with just a $100 per-seat deposit.
New season ticket members will be contacted in the order a deposit was placed to secure their seats.
For more information, please email SpringTraining@Tigers.com.

Unwrap The Magic: A Holiday Gift Guide from The Ilitch Companies News Hub
December 11, 2023
Get ready to score big this holiday season with an extraordinary blend of gifts for everyone on your list. Whether you’re shopping for the die-hard sports fan, a pizza aficionado, or someone who simply loves the electric energy of the Motor City, this guide has something for everyone.
Featuring exclusive team merchandise, Hot-N-Ready staples, and mouthwatering delights from The District Detroit, a curated selection will add a touch of magic to your holiday festivities.
Looking to buy a featured gift or for more ideas? Make sure to check out the information below for store locations, hours of operation and websites to purchase online items.







Looking for private event and catering options? See below for current offerings in The District Detroit:


Patrick Kane Set to Make Detroit Red Wings Debut
December 6, 2023
Patrick Kane set to make his Detroit Red Wings debut on Thursday, December 7 at Little Caesars Arena.


College Hockey Returns to Little Caesars Arena with the Annual “Duel in the D,” Presented by Meijer, on Saturday, February 10
December 4, 2023
The return of college hockey is headed to Little Caesars Arena with the annual “Duel in the D,” presented by Meijer, set for Saturday, February 10 at 8:30 p.m.
Tickets go on sale Friday, December 8 at 10 a.m. and can be purchased at 313Presents.com, Ticketmaster.com, or by calling the Red Wings Ticket Sales and Service office at 313-471-7575. Group discounts are available by calling 313 Presents Group Sales at 313-471-3099.
The fans of Hockeytown will be treated to one of the most intense and exciting rivalries in college hockey, as the Michigan Wolverines and Michigan State Spartans men’s ice hockey teams will add another chapter in their storied rivalry and clash for the “Iron D” Trophy.
The “Duel in the D” matchup features the most-played rivalry in college hockey. The game will mark the 346th all-time meeting between the historic programs, with Michigan currently holding a 179-139-24 edge in the series.
Michigan, currently ranked No. 14 in the nation by the USCHO poll, has claimed the “Iron D” Trophy against No. 7 Michigan State in each of the last six matchups at Little Caesars Arena. The two teams will square off three times this season (Jan. 19 at MSU; Jan. 20 at UM; Feb. 9 at UM) before their final regular season matchup in the “Duel in the D.”
“There’s nothing quite like the environment at Little Caesars Arena when Michigan and Michigan State play for the ‘Iron D’ trophy,” said Michigan Head Coach Brandon Naurato. “It marks not only an important game for the players and the league but for every sports fan in the state. Our program takes great pride in our Michigan roots, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who makes this game possible. We can’t wait to once again provide an unforgettable experience for everyone.”
“Having an opportunity to play in the greatest rivalry in college hockey in an NHL building is exciting for our program,” said Michigan State Head Coach Jared Nightingale. “Michigan State-Michigan brings out the best in both programs, and playing the game in front of 19,000 fans creates an atmosphere that is unmatched. I have great memories of the games we played at Joe Louis Arena when I was a player, and we are appreciative that Little Caesars Arena and Ilitch Sports + Entertainment continues to give us this platform to showcase college hockey in the city of Detroit.”
ABOUT THE “IRON D” TROPHY
The “Iron D” Trophy features a forged iron “D” at its center to symbolize the city of Detroit, while the skyline of Hockeytown wraps around the base, including an image of Little Caesars Arena placed at the center. A large cup rests atop the trophy and hockey sticks, a red glass puck, and the logos of Michigan and Michigan State line the sides of the trophy. The trophy was designed and built by Erik and Israel Nordin at their studio, the Detroit Design Center.
“IRON D” TROPHY WINNERS:
2023 – Michigan (4-3, overtime)
2022 – Michigan (7-3)
2021 – Did Not Play (Coronavirus Pandemic)
2020 – Michigan (4-1)
2019 – Michigan (5-2)
2018 – Michigan (3-2)
2017 – Michigan (4-4 tie, shootout win)
2016 – Michigan State (3-2, overtime)

The District Detroit Welcomes Detroit Vs Everybody to Columbia Street This Month
December 4, 2023
After unexpectedly losing its flagship store location in Eastern Market earlier this year, Detroit’s own homegrown brand, Detroit Vs Everybody, has found a new home and will be opening a pop-up retail location at 44 W. Columbia Street in The District Detroit in December. The location will offer a full line of the company’s trademark apparel and accessories.
Detroit Vs Everybody was founded by Tommey Walker to represent the pride and unapologetic spirit of Detroit. Walker remains committed to creating a brand that strengthens the city’s image through the restored pride of Detroiters and is the creative powerhouse behind every product Detroit Vs Everybody sells.
“The past few months have been something we could never have imagined. Eastern Market was home, and we value our time there. We are excited about our new location in The District Detroit,” said Tommey Walker, Detroit Vs Everybody founder. “Olympia Development has been generous in time and resources to help us find this new spot. We are truly blessed. I can’t wait to share it with you all.”
With its overwhelming success, Detroit Vs Everybody continues to grow and has attracted local, national and international recognition.
“We are thrilled to have Detroit Vs Everybody in The District Detroit. We strive to provide our guests with the most unique and dynamic experiences, dining options and entertainment in The District Detroit,” said Keith Bradford, President of Olympia Development of Michigan and The District Detroit. “This wildly successful brand is an authentic and powerful addition to Columbia Street, and we proudly welcome Tommey and his team.”
Detroit Vs Everybody will be open 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily, with additional hours during events.
Columbia Street is The District Detroit’s pedestrian-friendly walkway located between the historic Fox Theatre and Little Caesars World Headquarters, across Woodward Avenue from Comerica Park. Columbia Street is also home to Frita Batidos, JoJo’s ShakeBAR, Sahara Restaurant and Grill, Good Cakes and Bakes, Union Assembly and Mom’s Spaghetti. The District Detroit is managed by Olympia Development. Olympia Development of Michigan is proud to be part of the Ilitch Companies family of businesses.



Detroit Tigers Sign LHP Andrew Chafin to One-Year Contract
December 3, 2023
The Detroit Tigers have signed lefthanded pitcher Andrew Chafin to a one-year contract worth $4.25 million with a club option for the 2025 season for $6.5 million. If the club option is not exercised, Chafin is entitled to a $500,000 buyout.
Chafin’s contract includes performance bonuses in 2024 and 2025 that can increase his base salary up to $1.25 million for games pitched in each season: $125,000 for 50 games pitched, $250,000 each for 55 and 60 games pitched, $300,000 for 65 games pitched and $325,000 for 70 games pitched.
Chafin, 33, returns to the Tigers after appearing in 63 games between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Milwaukee Brewers in 2023, posting a 3-4 record with a career-best eight saves, a 4.73 ERA (51.1IP/27ER) and 63 strikeouts. He finished the season strong, posting a 1.69 ERA (10.2IP/2ER) with eight strikeouts in 12 outings duringSeptember/October.
Chafin previously pitched for Detroit in 2022, appearing in 64 games that season and finishing the year with a 2-3 record, a 2.83 ERA (57.1IP/18ER) and 67 strikeouts. He excelled at stranding inherited runners that season as he allowed only five of the 36 runners he inherited to score. Chafin was one of two Major League relievers in 2022 to inherit 35-or-more runners and allow five-or-fewer to score.
Chafin’s best Major League season came in 2021, when he pitched in 71 games between the Chicago Cubs and Oakland Athletics, posting a 1.83 ERA (68.2IP/14ER) and 64 strikeouts. He ranked fifth among big league relievers in ERA, while he was eighth in opponent OPS (.521) and 10th in opponent slugging percentage (.273). All four marks were the lowest of his career, along with his .186 opponent batting average.
Chafin has been one of the most durable relievers in baseball since 2017, as he is one of two pitchers to appear in 60-or more games in each of the last six full seasons (2017-19, 21-23). Dating back to the 2017 campaign, he has pitched in a Major League leading 438 games. In 10 big league seasons, Chafin has posted a 3.40 ERA (452.0IP/171ER) and 485 strikeouts.
A native of Kettering, OH, Chafin was originally drafted by Arizona as a supplemental first round selection (43rd overall) in the 2011 MLB Draft. He currently resides in Navarre, OH, with his wife, Shelbi, and their three children.
With the signing of Chafin, the Tigers 40-man roster is now at 39.