World Series Champion, Two-Time All-Star, Gold Glove and Silver Slugger Winner Joins Tigers

The Detroit Tigers announced that they have agreed to terms with shortstop Javier Báez on a six-year contract.

“There’s no secret that improving the middle of our infield was a top priority for us this off-season, and we’re thrilled to announce the addition of one of baseball’s most electric players to help fill that need,” said Al Avila, Detroit Tigers Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations and General Manager. “Javy’s track record shows he’ll be an elite defender, and a special bat in the heart of our lineup. He’s a key piece to a highly competitive core of players that we are developing here in Detroit. Javy plays with tremendous passion, and we are looking forward to seeing the natural leadership abilities he brings both on and off the field to help us win.”

Báez, 29, split the 2021 season between the Chicago Cubs and the New York Mets, posting a .265/.319/.494 slashline with 18 doubles, two triples, 31 home runs and 87 RBI in 138 games. He also finished the season with 18 stolen bases, which ranked ninth in the NL. Báez was one of four Major League players to finish the season with at least 31 home runs, 87 RBI and 18 steals (also, Shohei Ohtani, José Ramírez and Fernando Tatis Jr.), and was one of the most productive players in baseball during September/October, ranking 12^th in the Majors with a 169 wRC+.

“I’m excited to be a Detroit Tiger,” said Baez. “This is a team that is on the rise, and I’ve heard the fans in Detroit are hungry for a winner. We have a strong mix of veterans and talented young players and I’m looking forward to joining this group to make a run at the playoffs and bring the city a World Series championship.”

A native of Bayamon, Puerto Rico, Báez has played in eight Major League seasons, hitting a combined .264/.307/.477 with 160 doubles, 19 triples, 149 home runs and 465 RBI in 862 games. He has been selected to two All-Star Games, starting for the National League at second base in 2018 and shortstop in 2019. Báez won a Gold Glove at shortstop in 2020, and according to Sports Info Solutions has led the Majors in defensive runs saved over the last three seasons. He finished second in voting for the NL Most Valuable Player in 2018 after hitting .290/.326/.554 with 40 doubles, nine triples, 34 home runs and a NL leading 111 RBI. He also ranked second that season in the NL in triples (9) and extra-base hits (83), third in total bases (336), fourth in slugging percentage (.554), sixth in doubles (40), seventh in home runs (34) and bWAR (6.4) and eighth in runs scored (101) and hits (176).

Báez has significant experience in the postseason, playing in 36 games. He was a key part of the Cubs World Series championship in 2016, earning co-Most Valuable Player honors in the 2016 NLCS vs. the Dodgers after hitting .316/.333/.500 with four doubles and five RBI.

Báez resides in Dorado, PR with his wife, Irmarie Marquez, and their sons, Adrian and Aiden. He was originally selected by the Chicago Cubs with the ninth overall selection in the 2011 MLB Draft from Arlington Country Day School (FL). Báez was acquired by the Mets along with Trevor Williams from Chicago (NL) in exchange for Pete Crow-Armstrong on July 30, 2021.

“Pass-It-Forward” Promotion Allows Fans to Re-Direct Labatt Blue Light Beer Rebates Toward Restoration of Rinks.

Labatt Blue Light has teamed up with the Detroit Red Wings Foundation to “Pass-It-Forward” and invest to improve community ice rinks across the state of Michigan. During the month of December, fans who purchase a Labatt 24-pack will have the option to receive an $8 rebate from Labatt USA, or they can choose to forego it, and Labatt USA will redirect the rebate to the Detroit Red Wings Foundation. Labatt USA and the Detroit Red Wings will also make separate donations to the Detroit Red Wings Foundation. With the rebates and corporate donations, up to $30,000 in funds will be available to restore ice rinks for local communities and recreational hockey players.

“Throughout Michigan, Labatt Blue Light and hockey go hand-in-hand,” said Scott Suppes, Labatt trade marketing manager. “With such a loyal base of Labatt drinkers and hockey fans across the state, this program allows Labatt to support the communities that drink our beer. Partnering with the Detroit Red Wings Foundation, we look forward to restoring rinks for hockey players and Michigan residents to enjoy.”

“Joining forces on this new Pass-It-Forward promotion provides an exciting opportunity to help rinks throughout Michigan gain access to vital improvement funds,” said Kevin Brown, director of community impact for the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Tigers “Together with Labatt Blue Light and generous Red Wings fans, we’ll continue to grow the legacy of Hockeytown in cities and towns across our great state.”

According to Arrowhead Promotions, an industry leader in promotions working with Labatt Blue Light on this initiative, localizing donations through rebates is a unique endeavor.

“Arrowhead Promotion administers thousands of promotions each year for our clients, and rarely do we see marketing efforts designed to not only promote their brand but also to demonstrate their commitment to make the world a better place,” said Bud Schneider, Arrowhead Promotion & Fulfillment President. “Arrowhead Promotion and Fulfillment Co is proud to partner with Labatt Blue Light on this Pass-it-Forward promotion.”

The Detroit Red Wings Foundation will provide an opportunity for ice rinks in Michigan to apply for improvement grants from the Pass-It-Forward promotion in early 2022. Details regarding eligibility and the application process will be released after the retail promotion has concluded.

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The Detroit Tigers announced that they have agreed to terms with left-handed pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez on a five-year contract.

“Eduardo was clearly one of our top targets in this year’s free agent pitching class, and we are extremely happy to add someone of his caliber to our rotation,” said Al Avila, Detroit Tigers Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations and General Manager. “There are a number of strong qualities that Eduardo brings to our ballclub, including his leadership abilities, and we look forward to the positive impact he will have on our team both on and off the field.”

After missing the 2020 season due to myocarditis, Rodriguez, 28, had a strong comeback campaign in 2021, appearing in 32 games, including 31 starts, and posting a 13-8 record with a 4.74 ERA (157.2IP/83ER) and 185 strikeouts, which was ninth in the American League. He led Red Sox pitchers in victories, while he ranked second in starts, innings pitched and strikeouts. Rodriguez finished the season with a career-best 10.56 strikeouts/9.0 innings, which also ranked fourth in the AL (min. 150.0IP). The 6-2, 231-pound southpaw also ranked fourth in the AL with a 3.8 fWAR, which was also a career best. Rodriguez also posted career highs in strikeout/walk ratio (3.94) and FIP (3.32), which was tied for third in the AL. Rodriguez started three games last postseason, compiling a 1-1 record with a 4.97 ERA (12.2IP/7ER) and 14 strikeouts.

“I am excited to be a Tiger and appreciate the commitment being made to building a winning team in Detroit,” said Rodriguez. “After some great years in Boston with amazing fans and teammates, I am blessed to be coming into a new situation where the fans in Detroit are some of the best in baseball. In speaking with Al and A.J., I knew this is a place that would be a good fit for me and my family. I can’t wait to join my new teammates and work towards a World Series title.”

Rodriguez’s best Major League season came in 2019, when he led the league with 34 starts and compiled a 19-6 record with a 3.81 ERA and 213 strikeouts. He ranked third in the Majors with 19 victories, while he ranked ninth in the American League in ERA and strikeouts. Rodriguez threw 7.0-or-more scoreless innings five times, which was tied with Lucas Giolito for the second most in the American League and helped lead the Red Sox to a 26-8 record during games in which he was the starting pitcher. Following that season, Rodriguez finished sixth in voting for the 2019 AL Cy Young Award.

For more about Rodriquez, visit the Detroit Tigers website.

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Just in time for the holiday season, the Detroit Red Wings have once again teamed up with PetSmart to present the 2022 Pucks for Paws Calendar featuring photos of Red Wings players and personalities with their furry friends. A portion of the proceeds from each purchase will benefit PetSmart Charities, the leading funder of animal welfare programs in North America, and the Detroit Red Wings Foundation, which provides opportunity and access to hockey for thousands of children in Detroit.

“I think the pet calendar is a great idea to help raise funds and awareness,” said Red Wings alternate captain Marc Staal. “I love my dog. He makes each day a little brighter. The photo shoot was a fun experience to support dog adoption and help pets find a home.”

Tyler Bertuzzi (left) Marc Staal (right)

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In addition to the $20 calendar, a limited number of official Pucks for Paws collars, bandanas, and leashes are also available for purchase. The merchandise makes great gifts – and now, favorite pets can show their love for the Red Wings and support two worthy causes.

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“My wife and I rescued our dog, and he is part of our family,” said Red Wings defenseman Jordan Oesterle. “It’s great when you can support a cause to take dogs off the street, get rescued and find a home.”

Calendars and merchandise are on sale from November 15 through January 31, 2022 and can be purchased at DetroitRedWings.com/PucksforPaws.

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Dylan Larkin (left) Robby Fabbri (right)

As part of a long-standing tradition of honoring U.S. military men and women, the Ilitch companies are planning special offers and events this Veteran’s Day both nationally and in our hometown of Detroit.

Little Caesars Honors Military Members on Veteran’s Day and Year-round

At participating Little Caesars stores nationwide, all United States Armed Forces veterans and active military can receive a free HOT-N-READY® Lunch Combo this Veterans Day. On Thursday, Nov. 11, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., veterans and active military members can receive their free Lunch Combo, which features four slices of Little Caesars popular Detroit-style DEEP!DEEP!™ Dish pizza, paired with a 20-ounce Pepsi product.

“All of us at Little Caesars are thankful to all of our veterans and members of the military for their service,” said Little Caesars President and CEO, David Scrivano. “In addition to complimentary lunch on Veterans Day, our family-owned company remains committed to supporting these heroes every day with programs like the Little Caesars Veterans Program.”

The Little Caesars Veterans Program, now in its 15th year, provides honorably discharged veterans and Gold Star families financial incentives to open a Little Caesars franchise of their own. Under the Veterans Program, honorably discharged veterans and Gold Star families receive benefits when opening a franchise store, including a franchise fee discount, equipment and supply discounts, financing assistance, as well as advertising and publicity support, among others. Today, there are hundreds of veteran-owned Little Caesars stores across the country.

Detroit Red Wings and Kroger Celebrate Local Heroes

The Detroit Red Wings will celebrate local United States armed services veterans for their service before and during the game against the Washington Capitals at Little Caesars Arena on Thursday, Nov. 11 for Military Appreciation Night, Presented by Kroger.

More than a dozen veterans representing the Motor City Veterans Hockey Association will attend Thursday’s game and sell 50/50 raffle tickets for the Detroit Red Wings Foundation, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the MCVHA. A special group package for Thursday’s game, including a discounted ticket, limited-edition “Salute to Service” cap and a donation to the MCVHA, remains available.

Fans will also have an opportunity to participate in an online auction that features camouflage jerseys and camouflage-taped sticks used by Red Wings players during warm-ups, in addition to Military Appreciation Night pucks. The items will be auctioned off at DetroitRedWings.com/Auction until Thursday, Nov. 18 at noon, with proceeds also benefiting the MCVHA.

“In addition to expressing gratitude for local service members during every Red Wings home game at Little Caesars Arena, Military Appreciation Night serves as an immensely special date on the team’s calendar each season,” said Kevin Brown, Director of Community Impact for the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Tigers. “This Veterans Day, we are once again joining together with Kroger for Military Appreciation Night – encouraging Red Wings fans in the arena and at home to share their support for our nation’s heroes.”

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The Detroit Tigers today acquired catcher Tucker Barnhart from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for infielder Nick Quintana.

Barnhart, one of 27 catchers in Major League history to win multiple gold glove awards (2017 and 2020), was one of baseball’s most durable and effective backstops in 2021. He was one of nine catchers in the National League to play at least 116 games last season, posting a 1.2 fWAR with a .247/.317/.368 slashline, seven home runs and 48 RBI.

“Coming into this off-season, we knew that catcher was a priority position for us,” said Al Avila, Detroit Tigers Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations and General Manager. “During our strategy meetings over the last couple of weeks in Lakeland with my front office staff, Tucker’s name came up many times as an attractive option for our ballclub as someone who is a real plus defender, knows how to lead a pitching staff and is a solid contributor from the batter’s box. After feeling interest from the Reds to make a deal, we moved quickly to make it happen and kick off our off-season transactions.”

“While it’s bittersweet to be leaving the organization that drafted me, I couldn’t be happier to join the Tigers,” said Barnhart. “This is an exciting time for a team that’s undergone such a big transformation over the last few years. A.J. is one of the best managers in all of baseball, and I’m looking forward to working with him, the coaching staff and other teammates to bring the playoffs and a World Series Championship back to the Motor City.”

Batting from the left side, Barnhart has played in parts of eight seasons with the Reds since debuting in 2014 and had just one stint on the injured list. Among the 92 qualified catchers over that span, he ranks seventh in walks (246), 10^th in games played (744), 18^th in total bases (841), 21^st in K/BB ratio (2.04) and 25^th in OBP (.324). His standout season came in 2017, when he blasted 33 extra-base hits and slashed .270/.347/.403. Per FanGraphs, that season he led all Major League catchers in defensive value and defensive runs saved.

Barnhart, 30, is a native of Indianapolis, Indiana and was originally drafted by the Reds in the 10^th round of the 2010 MLB Draft. His positive impact extended far beyond the field, as he was named Cincinnati’s nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award in both 2018 and 2020. Tucker, and his wife, Sierra, have two children.

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Four Man Ladder Management, operators of Grey Ghost Detroit and Second Best, have revealed the name and concept of their third Detroit restaurant project. Originally announced in August, Four Man Ladder’s third restaurant concept is now under construction at 2703 Park Avenue in The District Detroit, on the ground floor of Olympia Development of Michigan’s Eddystone residences.

Basan, the name of a mythological fire-breathing fowl, is slated to open next year.  Basan’s kitchen will be centered around a Robata grill producing an eclectic mix of items cooked over open flame. Flavors and dishes will be inspired by Asian street food with an energetic atmosphere reminiscent of an Izakaya, a restaurant known for beverage-forward menus, alongside complementary shareable plates.

“Given the historic Eddystone’s proximity to Little Caesars Arena, we knew this concept needed to match the incredible energy and vibrancy found within The District Detroit and appeal to a wide variety of guests. The Izakaya style of dining felt like a natural fit. Our guests will be able to craft their own experience, whether that’s a pre-game stop for cocktails and a quick bite or a more curated, multi-course dinner,” says Chef John Vermiglio.

The concept debuted on Halloween night at Grey Ghost, where the restaurant “dresses up” for the occasion each year. The sold-out evening gave guests a first look at what Basan will soon be, with preview dishes including Fried Bologna Bao (roasted jalapeño kewpie, cheddar crisp), Shiitake Chawanmushi (fried maitake, puffed black rice, egg yolk) and Shoyu Glazed Short Ribs with wasabi-potato dumplings.

“We are excited to add Basan to the enticing mix of dining and entertainment options in The District Detroit,” said Stefan Stration, Vice President of Olympia Development of Michigan. “This unique and welcoming concept from Four Man Ladder will be a great fit for residents and guests of the Eddystone residences.”

Basan will seat 85 in the indoor dining room, 26 on the patio and will also feature private dining space, lounge area and bar. Design features include an open kitchen, dramatic lighting, plush velvet cranberry red sofas, golden natural wood and custom artwork.

Additional menu details, opening date and key players will be announced next year as construction progresses.

More information about Basan can be found at www.BasanDetroit.com and facebook.com/BasanDetroit. Details about the Eddystone, including leasing information can be found at https://www.EddystoneDetroit.com

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As Detroit Red Wings, Pistons and concert fans and guests continue to return to live sports and events at Little Caesars Arena, they’ll notice a few changes right away – most notably, the addition of two new restaurants at the award-winning venue in the heart of The District Detroit.

Located on the southeast side of the arena near the Comerica entrance, fans will find The Mixing Board and PointsBet Sports Bar, which both celebrated grand openings during the Red Wings’ Home Opener on Oct. 14. These restaurants, which offer unique and unparalleled experiences for fans looking for additional fun besides live games or shows, are the latest additions to the growing number of places in The District Detroit to grab some food or drinks before or after an event at Little Caesars Arena.

Locally Inspired: The Mixing Board

Every element of The Mixing Board was carefully curated to showcase and celebrate the uniqueness of Detroit. Just as a concert mixing board merges multiple, diverse input signals into a sonorous whole, so too will The Mixing Board, pulling from the city’s rich history of ethnic, neighborhood and local flavors and ingredients that characterize Detroit and the state of Michigan.

The full-service restaurant, which includes a performance stage for live, local music and entertainment, features locally sourced ingredients, libations and creations unique to the region, along with décor that pays homage to the city’s inimitable automotive, musical and industrial history.

The Mixing Board menu includes starters, salads, sandwiches, flatbread pizzas, sharables, desserts, craft cocktails and craft beer – all with a decidedly local twist. Both individual and shared items are uniquely presented and served on custom wooden boards, which were specially created for The Mixing Board menu. Larger charcuterie-style boards were developed for sharable menu options.

The Mixing Board guests will enjoy an array of menu options dedicated to the city of Detroit and the great state of Michigan, including the MotorCity Margherita flatbread pizza, the Southwest Detroit tacos, the Woodward Stack double cheeseburger, the Traverse City Bourbon Butter Cake dessert and the Wolverinetini and Spartini cocktails, an ode to one of the greatest rivalries in all of college sports.

Gaming-Focused: PointsBet Sports Bar

Just south of The Mixing Board, the new PointsBet Sports Bar is highlighted by betting-themed pub fare, dozens of taps featuring local craft and domestic beers and unique menu items not available anywhere else in Detroit. Special guests will appear at the PointsBet Sports Bar, along with unique programing, VIP access and gaming promotions. Televisions will display integrated live odds, giving fans real-time updates as they monitor their favorite teams while placing bets. PointsBet is an official gaming partner of the Detroit Red Wings and was announced as the official gaming partner of the Detroit Tigers in 2020.

“We’re always looking to enhance the fan experience at Little Caesars Arena and in The District Detroit, and the additions of The Mixing Board and the PointsBet Sports Bar certainly accomplish that,” said Tim Padgett, Vice President of Operations for Little Caesars Arena. “We know fans are excited to attend live events again, and it’s important that we offer options for everyone to enjoy. Hockey and basketball games, live concerts and shows are about both the event itself and the experience at that event – so we are confident that fans who come to Little Caesars Arena will surely make memories that last with them for a long time.” The Mixing Board and PointsBet Sports Bar, both operated by Delaware North, are open during all events at Little Caesars Arena. Extended hours of operation will be announced at a future date.

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The Detroit Tigers recently teamed up with Detroit Police Athletic League (PAL) for an afternoon of family-friendly Halloween fun at the PAL-O-Ween event at The Corner Ballpark, the former site of Tiger Stadium. The event, for youth from Detroit PAL community, featured the Detroit Tigers Fun-at-Bat Program, which introduces kids to fundamentals of baseball and softball, and critical character development principles.

Kids came decked out in Halloween costumes and took part in trick-or treating, bounce houses, craft tables, tug-of-war, sack races, corn hole, face painting, a photo booth, and more.

The Tigers provided a Fun At-Bat program instructional and engagement station where featuring a hitting component taught by Schoolcraft College baseball players, in addition to free equipment kits and Little Caesars pizza. At the Fun At-Bat station, Detroit PAL CEO Robert Jamerson and former Tigers outfielder/current Bally Sports Detroit analyst and Fun At-Bat At Home video host Craig Monroe engaged with the kids, alongside fan favorites Tigers mascot PAWS and the Detroit Tigers Energy Squad.

The Detroit Tigers have a longstanding partnership with Detroit PAL to bring impactful community youth initiatives that teach the basics of baseball and important teamwork skills that will last a lifetime. Tiny Tigers is one of the programs, offering girls and boys ages 4-8 a place to make friends and memories alongside volunteers, mentors and dedicated community leaders.

Detroit PAL, a non-profit organization based in Corktown, impacts more than 14,000 Detroit-area children each year through its sports and recreational camps and after-school activities with the help of more than 1,700 volunteers. Founded in 1969, the organization gives children an opportunity to learn skills needed to succeed both on and off the playing field.

The Detroit Tigers Foundation provides an annual grant to support the Tiny Tigers program, which has supported more than 2,000 young, aspiring players to date.

In addition to Tiny Tigers, the Detroit Tigers Foundation invests in youth baseball programs throughout the greater Detroit community – through baseball field renovation projects, youth summer camps and baseball equipment donations – that promote the good citizenship embodied in the storied history of the Detroit Tigers.

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