History of Detroit Tigers in Timeline
The Detroit Tigers, a professional baseball team based in Detroit, Michigan, are a member of the American League (AL) Central Division in Major League Baseball (MLB). Established in 1894 as a minor league team in the Western League, the Tigers are the sole remaining Western League team in their founding city. They hold the distinction of being the oldest franchise in the AL to maintain the same name and city throughout their history. Baseball legend Ty Cobb, whose career with the Tigers began in 1905, became the first Tiger to be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936.
1900: Western League Aims for Major League Status
In 1900, the Western League, home to the Detroit Tigers, boldly declared itself the American League and set its sights on achieving major league status in the world of baseball.
April 25, 1901: Detroit Tigers' First Major League Game
The Detroit Tigers made their debut as a major league team on April 25, 1901, facing the Milwaukee Brewers in a thrilling game at Bennett Park.
1901: Detroit Tigers and Chicago White Sox Join the American League
Both the Detroit Tigers and Chicago White Sox became members of the American League in 1901, having previously been charter members of the original Western League.
1901: Detroit Tigers' Major League Debut
The Detroit Tigers marked their entrance into Major League Baseball as a charter member of the American League in 1901.
1901: Start of Detroit Tigers' MLB Journey
The Detroit Tigers embarked on their Major League Baseball journey in 1901.
1902: Johnny Kling's Hitting Streak Record
Johnny Kling set a major league record in 1902 by hitting in 12 consecutive plate appearances, a record later tied by Walt Dropo in 1952.
1903: American and National Leagues Make Peace
A truce was reached between the American and National Leagues in 1903, ending a period of rivalry and ushering in a new era of cooperation in Major League Baseball.
1903: Detroit Tigers' Logo Evolution
In 1903, the Detroit Tigers decided to update their logo, replacing the red tiger mascot on their caps with the letter "D".
1903: Simple Block "D" Used on Uniforms
The Detroit Tigers used a simple block "D" on their uniforms in 1903.
1904: First Appearance of the Blackletter "D"
The Detroit Tigers' blackletter "D" logo first appeared on their uniforms in 1904 after using a simple block "D" in 1903.
1905: Ty Cobb Joins the Detroit Tigers
In 1905, Ty Cobb, a rising star in the baseball world, joined the Detroit Tigers, marking a pivotal moment in the team's history as they aimed for greater heights.
1905: Ty Cobb Joins the Detroit Tigers
In 1905, a young and talented Ty Cobb joined the Detroit Tigers, marking the beginning of his legendary career in Major League Baseball.
1907: Detroit Tigers' First American League Pennant
The Detroit Tigers claimed their maiden American League pennant in 1907, marking their first foray into the World Series.
1907: Detroit Tigers' First World Series Appearance
The Detroit Tigers, fueled by a powerful lineup and stellar pitching, secured the AL pennant in 1907, earning their first-ever trip to the World Series.
1908: Detroit Tigers' Second Consecutive American League Pennant
Continuing their dominance, the Detroit Tigers secured their second consecutive American League pennant in 1908, cementing their status as a baseball powerhouse.
1908: Chicago Cubs Defeat Detroit Tigers in World Series
The Chicago Cubs emerged victorious against the Detroit Tigers in the 1908 World Series, marking the beginning of a long championship drought for the Cubs.
1909: Ty Cobb's Triple Crown Season
Ty Cobb, the Detroit Tigers' star player, achieved the coveted Triple Crown in 1909, leading the league in batting average, home runs, and RBIs, solidifying his place as one of baseball's greats.
1909: Detroit Tigers' Third Straight American League Pennant
The Detroit Tigers achieved a remarkable feat in 1909, capturing their third American League pennant in a row, showcasing their era of dominance.
1909: Detroit Tigers' Second World Series Appearance
The Detroit Tigers, determined to claim their first World Series title, made their second appearance in the Fall Classic in 1909, facing off against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
1910: Detroit Tigers Finish Third in American League
The Detroit Tigers experienced a dip in their performance in 1910, finishing third in the American League standings.
1911: Detroit Tigers Finish Second in American League
The Detroit Tigers showed improvement in 1911, securing second place in the American League but falling short of catching the dominant Philadelphia Athletics.
May 15, 1912: Ty Cobb's Suspension and Fan Incident
On May 15, 1912, Ty Cobb was suspended for confronting a fan during a game, leading to a controversial moment in his career and a unique protest from the Detroit Tigers.
1912: Detroit Tigers Struggle in the Standings
The Detroit Tigers faced challenges on the field in 1912, finding themselves in sixth place in the American League standings.
1912: Detroit Tigers Move to Navin Field
The Detroit Tigers relocated to Navin Field in 1912, leaving behind their previous home at Bennett Park.
1913: Detroit Tigers Remain in Sixth Place
The Detroit Tigers' struggles continued in 1913 as they remained in sixth place in the American League standings.
1915: Detroit Tigers Set Franchise Win Record
The Detroit Tigers achieved a historic feat in 1915, setting a new franchise record with 100 wins, showcasing their offensive prowess and narrowly missing out on the AL pennant.
1915: Previous Instance of 100+ Wins and No Postseason
The Detroit Tigers' failure to reach the postseason in 1961 despite winning 100+ games marked the second occurrence in MLB history. The first instance happened in 1915, also to the Tigers.
1916: Previous AL Losing Record
The 1916 Philadelphia Athletics held the unfortunate distinction of having the worst record in the American League history, with 117 losses, a record that stood until the Detroit Tigers surpassed it in 2003.
1916: Detroit Tigers Finish Third in American League
The Detroit Tigers finished the 1916 season in third place in the American League standings.
1920: Hughie Jennings Departs as Detroit Tigers Manager
Hughie Jennings concluded his tenure as manager of the Detroit Tigers in 1920, leaving behind a legacy of 1,131 wins, a record that stood for several decades.
August 19, 1921: Ty Cobb Achieves 3,000th Hit Milestone
On August 19, 1921, Ty Cobb cemented his place in baseball history by achieving his 3,000th career hit off Elmer Myers of the Boston Red Sox. This remarkable feat was achieved at the age of 34, making Cobb the youngest player ever to reach this milestone. He also accomplished this milestone in fewer at-bats (8,093) than any other player in history.
1921: Ty Cobb Becomes Player-Manager for Detroit Tigers
Ty Cobb, already a legend as a player, took on the dual role of player-manager for the Detroit Tigers in 1921.
1921: Record-Breaking Offense, Disappointing Season for the Tigers
The Detroit Tigers made history in 1921 with an incredible offensive showing, setting the American League record for most hits (1,724) and the highest team batting average (.316). Harry Heilmann and Ty Cobb led the charge, finishing first and second in the batting race with averages of .394 and .389, respectively. Despite their offensive prowess, the team's lackluster pitching (4.40 ERA) resulted in a disappointing 71-82 record, placing them sixth in the league and 27 games behind the first-place New York Yankees.
1923: Harry Heilmann's Historic .403 Batting Average
In 1923, Harry Heilmann etched his name in baseball history by achieving a .403 batting average, a feat unmatched in the American League until Ted Williams achieved a .406 average in 1941. Despite fielding strong teams during Ty Cobb's tenure as player-manager, the Tigers were consistently held back by subpar pitching, preventing them from securing a pennant victory.
1925: Heilmann Clinches Batting Title in Dramatic Fashion
Harry Heilmann delivered a remarkable performance in 1925, collecting six hits in the season-ending doubleheader to secure the American League batting title. His final average of .393 edged out Tris Speaker's .389, solidifying his legacy as one of the game's premier hitters.
November 1926: Ty Cobb Announces Retirement After 22 Seasons with Detroit
After an illustrious 22-season tenure with the Detroit Tigers, Ty Cobb announced his retirement from baseball in November 1926. Cobb's legendary career, however, wasn't entirely over, as he would later return to play two more seasons with the Philadelphia Athletics.
1927: Heilmann's Pursuit of .400 and Fourth Batting Title
Harry Heilmann captivated baseball fans in 1927 with his pursuit of the elusive .400 batting average. Despite falling just short of the mark, he finished the season with an impressive .398 average, earning him his fourth American League batting title and further solidifying his reputation as one of the game's premier hitters.
1933: Tigers Acquire Mickey Cochrane as Player-Manager
In a strategic move aimed at bolstering their roster, the Detroit Tigers acquired star catcher Mickey Cochrane from the Philadelphia Athletics following the 1933 season. Cochrane was brought on board not only for his on-field abilities but also to take the helm as the team's player-manager.
1934: Detroit Tigers' Fourth American League Pennant
The Detroit Tigers clinched their fourth American League pennant in 1934.
1934: Tigers Fall Short of 1934's Success, Still Secure Pennant
Though expected to replicate their 1934 dominance, the 1935 Detroit Tigers fell short of the 101-win mark. However, their 93-58 record was enough to secure the American League pennant, highlighting the team's consistent strength.
1934: First World Series Meeting Since 1934
This was the first time the Tigers and Cardinals had met in the World Series since 1934, highlighting a significant time gap between their encounters on this grand stage.
1934: Tigers End Playoff Drought Dating Back to 1934-35
The Detroit Tigers' consecutive playoff appearances in 2011 and 2012 marked the end of a long drought, as the team had not achieved this feat since the 1934-35 seasons.
1934: Dizzy Dean's 30-Win Season
The text mentions that Denny McLain's 31-win season in 1968 was the first time a pitcher had achieved this since Dizzy Dean in 1934.
1934: Detroit Tigers' Most Successful Season
The Detroit Tigers achieved their highest winning percentage in franchise history in 1934.
1934: Tigers Secure Pennant with Record-Breaking Season
The 1934 season witnessed the Detroit Tigers achieving a remarkable feat, clinching the American League pennant with a 101-53 record. This accomplishment marked a new franchise record for wins and established the team's highest-ever win percentage (.656). The formidable Tigers infield, spearheaded by Hank Greenberg and Charlie Gehringer, combined for an impressive 462 runs. Schoolboy Rowe emerged as the pitching staff's linchpin, securing 16 consecutive victories at one point and finishing the season with a stellar 24-8 record.
1934: Tigers Fall to Cardinals in a Heated World Series
The 1934 World Series saw the Detroit Tigers face off against the formidable "Gashouse Gang" St. Louis Cardinals, ultimately falling to them in a hard-fought seven-game series. Despite a valiant effort, the Tigers couldn't overcome Dizzy Dean and the Cardinals in Games 6 and 7, marking their second World Series loss in a decisive seventh game. Game 7 was unfortunately marred by a controversial incident: after spiking Tigers third baseman Marv Owen, Cardinals left fielder Joe Medwick was removed from the game for his own safety due to debris hurled by enraged fans.
1934: Tigers' Home Uniform Established
In 1934, the Detroit Tigers established their home uniform as a white jersey with navy blue piping, an Old English "D", white pants, and a navy blue hat with a white "D" in Old English font.
1934: Tigers Achieve Longest Winning Streak Since 1934
The 1934 Detroit Tigers hold the franchise record for the longest winning streak at 14 games.
1934: Detroit Tigers' Historic Season
The 1934 Detroit Tigers hold a special place in franchise history as the only team to surpass the 1915 squad in winning percentage.
1935: Tigers Clinch Pennant with a Lineup Packed with Future Hall of Famers
The 1935 Detroit Tigers boasted a formidable lineup featuring four future Hall of Famers: Hank Greenberg, Mickey Cochrane, Goose Goslin, and Charlie Gehringer. Although they couldn't replicate the previous year's 101-win season, their impressive 93-58 record secured them the American League pennant, besting the New York Yankees by three games. Greenberg earned the AL MVP title, posting a .328 batting average and leading the league in home runs (36), extra-base hits (98), and RBIs (168). Notably, Greenberg's RBI count surpassed that of the next closest player (Lou Gehrig) by a staggering 48. Gehringer, Cochrane, and starting pitchers Tommy Bridges (21-10) and Elden Auker (18-7) all delivered strong performances.
1935: Detroit Tigers Secure Their First World Series Title
The Detroit Tigers celebrated a historic victory in 1935, clinching their first-ever World Series championship.
1936: Ty Cobb's Induction into the Hall of Fame
Ty Cobb, a legendary figure who played for the Detroit Tigers, was honored with an induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936, solidifying his place as one of baseball's all-time greats.
1936: Tigers' Reign Interrupted, Yankees Dominate
Despite high hopes of continuing their winning ways, the Detroit Tigers fell short of expectations in 1936. They finished a distant second to the dominant New York Yankees, marking the beginning of a challenging period for the team.
1937: Tigers Struggle to Keep Pace with Yankees
The 1937 season saw the Detroit Tigers facing similar challenges as the previous year, again finishing a distant second to the powerful New York Yankees. The team's struggles to keep pace with their rivals became a recurring theme during this period.
1938: Tigers Express Doubts About 1939 Pennant, Hopeful for 1940
During the closing week of the 1938 season, the Detroit Tigers made a prescient statement, expressing doubts about their chances of winning the pennant in 1939. Despite their skepticism about the upcoming season, the team remained optimistic about their prospects for 1940, predicting a turnaround in their fortunes.
1938: Navin Field Expansion and Renaming
Navin Field underwent a significant expansion in 1938 and was renamed Briggs Stadium, marking a new chapter for the ballpark.
1938: Tigers Slide Down the Standings, Greenberg Chases History
The Detroit Tigers continued their downward trend in 1938, finishing with an 84-70 record and falling further down the American League standings. Despite the team's struggles, Hank Greenberg provided a bright spot for Tigers fans, captivating audiences as he chased Babe Ruth's single-season home run record of 60. Entering the final weekend of the season against the Cleveland Indians, Greenberg sat at 58 home runs but failed to add to his tally.
1939: Tigers Express Doubts About 1939 Pennant, Hopeful for 1940
During the closing week of the 1938 season, the Detroit Tigers made a prescient statement, expressing doubts about their chances of winning the pennant in 1939. Despite their skepticism about the upcoming season, the team remained optimistic about their prospects for 1940, predicting a turnaround in their fortunes.
1939: St. Louis Browns Tie Record for Most Home Losses
The 1939 St. Louis Browns hold the record for the most home losses (59) in a single season in the modern era, which the Detroit Tigers tied in 2019.
1939: Tigers' Struggles Continue, Doubts Arise about Future Success
The Detroit Tigers' struggles persisted in 1939, ending the season with an 81-73 record and raising concerns about their ability to return to their winning ways. The team's recent performance fueled doubts among fans and experts alike about their chances of contending for the pennant in the near future.
1940: Detroit Tigers Secure Fifth American League Pennant
The Detroit Tigers added to their growing legacy in 1940 by winning their fifth American League pennant.
1940: Tigers Suffer Heartbreaking World Series Loss After Newsom's Heroic Effort
The Detroit Tigers faced a heartbreaking defeat in the 1940 World Series, losing to the Cincinnati Reds in seven games despite a heroic performance by Bobo Newsom. The Tigers fell short in the deciding game, losing 2-1. Tragedy struck the Newsom family during the series as Bobo's father passed away in a Cincinnati hotel room after witnessing his son's victory in Game 1. Inspired by his father's memory, Bobo went on to win Game 5 and started Game 7 with only one day's rest, showcasing incredible resilience. This marked the third time the Tigers had lost a World Series in a decisive seventh game, adding to their list of heartbreaking defeats.
1940: Greenberg's Absence Impacts Tigers, Struggles Ensue
The absence of Hank Greenberg, who served in World War II from 1941 to 1944, had a significant impact on the Detroit Tigers. The team struggled to recapture the successes of 1940, failing to finish higher than fifth place between 1941 and 1943.
1940: Tigers Capture AL Pennant in a Tight Three-Team Race
The 1940 season saw the Detroit Tigers emerge victorious in a tightly contested three-team race, clinching the American League pennant with a 90-64 record. They edged out the Cleveland Indians by a single game and the New York Yankees by two games. The Tigers' success was partly attributed to a key positional change: Hank Greenberg transitioned from first base to left field to accommodate Rudy York, who had fallen out of favor as the team's catcher. This strategic move paid off as York delivered a stellar performance, hitting .316 with 33 home runs and 134 RBIs. Greenberg continued to excel, batting .340 with 41 home runs and 150 RBIs. His outstanding performance earned him his second AL MVP award, making him the first player in Major League history to win the prestigious award at two different positions. Charlie Gehringer also made significant contributions, hitting .313 with an impressive .428 on-base percentage (bolstered by 101 walks) and scoring 108 runs.
1940: Bobo Newsom Leads the Pitching Staff, Rookie Floyd Giebell Shines in Key Game
Bobo Newsom emerged as the ace of the Detroit Tigers' pitching staff in 1940, achieving a remarkable 21-5 record with a 2.83 ERA. A surprising hero emerged in the form of 30-year-old rookie Floyd Giebell. In just his third Major League start, on September 27th, Giebell was entrusted with pitching the crucial pennant-clinching game against the formidable Bob Feller of the Cleveland Indians. Giebell rose to the occasion, shutting out the Indians while surrendering just three hits. His impressive performance, highlighted by a two-run homer from Rudy York, secured a 2-0 victory for the Tigers.
1940: Tigers Express Doubts About 1939 Pennant, Hopeful for 1940
During the closing week of the 1938 season, the Detroit Tigers made a prescient statement, expressing doubts about their chances of winning the pennant in 1939. Despite their skepticism about the upcoming season, the team remained optimistic about their prospects for 1940, predicting a turnaround in their fortunes.
1941: Greenberg's Absence Impacts Tigers, Struggles Ensue
The absence of Hank Greenberg, who served in World War II from 1941 to 1944, had a significant impact on the Detroit Tigers. The team struggled to recapture the successes of 1940, failing to finish higher than fifth place between 1941 and 1943.
1943: Greenberg's Absence Impacts Tigers, Struggles Ensue
The absence of Hank Greenberg, who served in World War II from 1941 to 1944, had a significant impact on the Detroit Tigers. The team struggled to recapture the successes of 1940, failing to finish higher than fifth place between 1941 and 1943.
1944: Tigers' Pitching Duo Shines, Narrowly Miss Pennant
The Detroit Tigers rebounded in 1944, finishing in second place thanks to the exceptional performance of their pitching duo, Hal Newhouser and Dizzy Trout, who recorded 29 and 27 wins, respectively. Newhouser's stellar 29-9 record and 2.22 ERA earned him the first of two consecutive AL MVP awards. Despite leading the league for a significant portion of the season, the Tigers finished one game behind the St. Louis Browns, narrowly missing out on the American League pennant.
1945: Post-World Series Performance
Following their World Series victory in 1945, the Detroit Tigers maintained winning records for the remainder of the decade. While they secured second place in the AL three times, they didn't win another pennant during this period.
1945: World Series Game 7 Victory
In 1945, despite facing a team considered weaker due to the return of players from the military, the Detroit Tigers won their first World Series Game 7 against the Chicago Cubs. The game concluded with a score of 9-3.
1945: Detroit Tigers' Second World Series Triumph
The Detroit Tigers achieved World Series glory for the second time in franchise history in 1945.
1946: Hal Newhouser's Near MVP Season and George Kell Acquisition
In 1946, Hal Newhouser almost achieved a third consecutive AL MVP award. He led the league in wins and ERA, but Ted Williams, who led the Red Sox to 104 wins, won the award. This year also saw the Tigers acquire George Kell, a future Hall of Famer who would bat over .300 for eight seasons.
1949: George Kell's Batting Title
In a close race in 1949, George Kell won the batting title by a fraction, edging out Ted Williams with a .34291 average compared to Williams's .34276.
1950: Tigers' Frustrating Season
Despite achieving a 95-59 record, their fourth-best winning percentage at the time, the 1950 season proved frustrating for the Tigers. They finished three games behind a dominant New York Yankees team that went on to win the World Series.
1952: Death of Walter Briggs Sr.
In 1952, Walter Briggs Sr., the owner of the Detroit Tigers, passed away.
1952: Virgil Trucks's No-Hitters and Walt Dropo's Hitting Streak
In 1952, the Tigers had their worst season until 2003, finishing 50-104. However, Virgil Trucks threw two no-hitters, becoming the third pitcher in MLB history to do so. Also, Walt Dropo tied a major league record by getting a hit in 12 consecutive plate appearances.
1952: Tigers' Previous Low Point
The Detroit Tigers' 1952 season marked a low point in the team's history in terms of wins, a record they would later match in 1975.
1953: Al Kaline's Debut
Al Kaline, a prominent outfielder, made his debut with the Detroit Tigers in 1953. Notably, he was one of the few MLB players who never played in the minor leagues. He had a successful career, hitting over .300 nine times.
1955: Al Kaline Becomes Youngest Batting Champion
At 20 years old, Al Kaline became the youngest batting champion in MLB history in 1955 after achieving a .340 batting average.
1955: Last Wire-to-Wire Championship
The 1955 Brooklyn Dodgers were the last team to achieve a wire-to-wire World Series victory before the Detroit Tigers accomplished the same feat in 1984.
1956: Sale of the Detroit Tigers
After inheriting the team, Walter Briggs Jr., son of Walter Briggs Sr., was compelled to sell the Detroit Tigers in 1956 to John Fetzer and Fred Knorr, owners of broadcast media.
1957: Beginning of Fetzer's Ownership
The year 1957 marked the beginning of John Fetzer's ownership of the Detroit Tigers, a period that would span several decades.
1958: Tigers Integrate Roster
The Detroit Tigers became the second to last team to integrate their roster in 1958 with the addition of Dominican player Ozzie Virgil Sr., leaving the Boston Red Sox as the final team to do so.
1960: Short-Lived Uniform Change
The Detroit Tigers briefly changed their uniforms to feature "Tigers" in script in 1960 but reverted to their traditional uniform the following season.
1960: Tigers' Losing Season
The Detroit Tigers concluded the 1960 season with a 71-83 record, marking a stark contrast to their successful 101-win season the following year.
1961: Briggs Stadium Becomes Tiger Stadium
Briggs Stadium underwent another name change in 1961, becoming Tiger Stadium, a name that would resonate with fans for decades to come.
1961: Previous Batting Title
Norm Cash, a Detroit Tigers player, last won a batting title in 1961 before Magglio Ordóñez's accomplishment in 2007.
1961: Increased Diversity in the Roster
The 1961 Detroit Tigers team included two non-white starting players, Bill Bruton and Jake Wood. Later in the 1960s, Black players like Willie Horton, Earl Wilson, and Gates Brown joined the team, contributing to their improving performance.
1961: Tigers' 101-Win Season
The Detroit Tigers enjoyed a successful season in 1961, leading the majors in runs scored and winning 101 games—a significant 30-game improvement from their 1960 record. Despite this achievement, they finished eight games behind the Yankees, marking a rare instance where a team with 100+ wins missed the postseason.
1962: Maury Wills Breaks Ty Cobb's Stolen Base Record
In 1962, Maury Wills surpassed Ty Cobb's long-standing stolen base record, marking a significant moment in baseball history.
1963: New Additions to the Team
The Detroit Tigers welcomed pitchers Mickey Lolich and Denny McLain to their rotation in 1963.
1964: Outfielders Join the Tigers
Outfielders Mickey Stanley and Jim Northrup joined the Detroit Tigers in 1964.
1966: Managerial Changes and Tragedies
The 1966 season saw the Detroit Tigers grapple with managerial changes and tragedies. Chuck Dressen and acting manager Bob Swift had to resign due to health issues, with Frank Skaff taking over. Both Dressen and Swift passed away during the year: Dressen from a heart attack in August and Swift from lung cancer in October.
1967: Cabrera Ends Triple Crown Drought Dating Back to 1967
Miguel Cabrera's historic 2012 season culminated in a Triple Crown, leading the AL in batting average, home runs, and runs batted in. This remarkable feat had not been accomplished since Carl Yastrzemski's achievement in 1967.
1967: Close Pennant Race
The 1967 season witnessed one of the closest pennant races in history. The Detroit Tigers, needing to sweep a doubleheader against the California Angels to force a playoff with the Boston Red Sox, fell short, losing the second game. The Tigers ended the season one game behind Boston.
1968: Detroit Tigers' Third World Series Victory
The year 1968 saw the Detroit Tigers etch their name in baseball history once more by securing their third World Series championship.
1968: Tigers Face Cardinals in World Series
The 1968 World Series saw the Detroit Tigers facing off against the defending champions, the St. Louis Cardinals. The Cardinals boasted a formidable lineup with Bob Gibson, known for his record-setting 1.12 ERA, and the speedy Lou Brock.
1968: Tigers' Second-Place Finish
Similar to the events leading up to their 1984 World Series triumph, the Detroit Tigers experienced a second-place finish in 1968.
1968: Detroit Tigers' Dominant Season and World Series Appearance
In 1968, the Detroit Tigers returned to the World Series after a long absence. They secured first place early in the season, clinching the pennant with a 103-59 record. Pitcher Denny McLain had a historic season, winning 31 games.
1968: Popular Detroit Tigers Cheers Emerge
During the 1968 season, the phrases "Go Get 'Em, Tigers" and "Sock it to 'em, Tigers!" gained popularity as cheers for the Detroit Tigers. "Go Get 'Em, Tigers" was inspired by a song of the same name by Artie Fields.
1969: Billy Martin's Managerial History
Before joining the Tigers, Billy Martin managed the Minnesota Twins to an AL West Division title in 1969. However, his tenure was marked by strained relationships with players, including a notable altercation with pitcher Dave Boswell.
1969: League Expansion and Tigers' Second Place Finish
Both leagues underwent a restructuring in 1969, realigning into two divisions of six teams each. The Detroit Tigers were placed in the American League East. Despite Denny McLain's impressive 24-9 season and a Cy Young Award win, the Tigers finished second to the Baltimore Orioles.
1969: Oakland Athletics' Rise to Competitiveness
The Oakland Athletics had become increasingly competitive since the 1969 realignment, marking a period of growth and success for the team.
1970: Tigers' Disappointing Season and Management Change
The Detroit Tigers had a disappointing 1970 season, finishing fourth in the AL East. This led to the dismissal of manager Mayo Smith and the hiring of Billy Martin, who had previous managerial experience with the Minnesota Twins.
1971: John Hiller's Heart Attack
In 1971, John Hiller, a relief pitcher for the Detroit Tigers, suffered a heart attack, marking a significant challenge in his career.
1971: Previous All-Star Game in Detroit
The 1971 Major League Baseball All-Star Game was held in Detroit, marking the last time the city hosted the event until 2005.
1971: Tigers' Second Place Finish and Lolich's Record-Breaking Season
The Detroit Tigers finished second in the AL East in 1971. Mickey Lolich had a standout season, striking out 308 batters, a franchise record. He also won 25 games and maintained a 2.92 ERA.
1972: Northrup and Martin's Feud
During the 1973 season, Jim Northrup attributed his limited playing time to an ongoing feud with Billy Martin, which he claimed had originated during the 1972 ALCS.
1972: Tigers Face Athletics in ALCS
In the 1972 American League Championship Series (ALCS), the Detroit Tigers went up against the Oakland Athletics, a team that had steadily risen in competitiveness since the 1969 realignment.
1972: Tigers Secure AL East Division Title
The 1972 season saw the Detroit Tigers winning their first AL East division title. Key contributions came from Joe Coleman, Eddie Brinkman, and Aurelio Rodríguez. Brinkman's impressive fielding earned him the Tiger of the Year award.
1972: Detroit Tigers Clinch AL East Division Title
The Detroit Tigers claimed the AL East division title in 1972.
1973: John Hiller's Record-Breaking Season
In 1973, Detroit Tigers relief pitcher John Hiller, in his first full season after suffering a heart attack in 1971, led the league with an impressive 38 saves and a 1.44 ERA.
1973: Tigers Finish Third and Martin's Controversial Exit
The Detroit Tigers dropped to third place in their division in the 1973 season. Manager Billy Martin's tenure ended controversially when he was fired in September for instructing his pitchers to throw spitballs in protest of Cleveland Indians pitcher Gaylord Perry, whom Martin believed was doing the same.
1974: Al Kaline's Retirement
Following the 1974 season, Al Kaline, a Detroit Tigers legend, retired after reaching the significant milestone of 3,000 career hits.
1975: Tigers' Lowest Win Count Since 1952
The Detroit Tigers faced a challenging season in 1975, recording only 57 wins, marking their lowest win count since 1952.
1976: Aurelio Rodríguez's Gold Glove Win
Detroit Tigers' third baseman, Aurelio Rodríguez, made history in 1976 by winning the Gold Glove Award, ending Hall of Famer Brooks Robinson's 16-year winning streak.
1976: Mark "The Bird" Fidrych's Debut
The Detroit Tigers welcomed a colorful rookie in 1976, 21-year-old Mark Fidrych, known as "The Bird" for his eccentricities like talking to the baseball.
1977: Debut of Future Stars
The 1977 season marked the debut of several future Detroit Tigers stars, including Jack Morris, Lance Parrish, Alan Trammell, and Lou Whitaker.
1977: Tigers' Losing Streak
The Detroit Tigers experienced a period of struggle, failing to achieve a winning season from 1974 to 1977.
1978: End of Ralph Houk's Tenure
Ralph Houk's tenure as manager of the Detroit Tigers ended in 1978 after five seasons.
1978: Tigers' Only Winning Season Under Houk
The Detroit Tigers achieved their sole winning season (88 wins) under manager Ralph Houk in 1978.
June 14, 1979: Sparky Anderson Takes the Helm
On June 14, 1979, the Detroit Tigers appointed George "Sparky" Anderson, a highly successful manager with two World Series titles, as their new manager.
1980: Kaline's Hall of Fame Induction
In 1980, Al Kaline, the legendary Detroit Tigers outfielder who retired with 3,007 hits, was inducted into the prestigious Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility.
1983: Willie Hernández Trade
In a significant move during the 1983 offseason, the Detroit Tigers acquired relief pitcher Willie Hernández from the Philadelphia Phillies, who had just won the National League Championship.
1983: Tigers' Second-Place Finish
The Detroit Tigers fell short of the American League East title in 1983, finishing six games behind the Baltimore Orioles with a record of 92-70.
1983: Sale of the Tigers Announced
The announcement of the Detroit Tigers' sale by John Fetzer to Tom Monaghan was made in late 1983, marking the end of an era for the franchise.
1984: Detroit Tigers' Fourth World Series Championship
The Detroit Tigers triumphed in the World Series for the fourth time in 1984, adding another glorious chapter to their illustrious history.
1984: Birth of "Bless You Boys"
The year 1984 witnessed the birth of the iconic phrase "Bless You Boys," initially coined by sports anchor Al Ackerman as a sarcastic remark, it evolved into a symbol of endearment for the Detroit Tigers.
1984: "Bless You Boys" Becomes Rallying Cry
The phrase "Bless You Boys," coined by sportscaster Al Ackerman, emerged as a popular rally cry for the Detroit Tigers during their successful run to the World Series championship in 1984.
1984: San Diego Padres Prevent Cubs-Tigers Series
The San Diego Padres, after being down two games in the 1984 National League Championship Series, made a comeback against the Chicago Cubs, preventing a fifth World Series matchup between the Cubs and the Detroit Tigers.
1984: Tigers' Dominant Season
The 1984 Detroit Tigers had a phenomenal season, starting 9-0 and finishing with a franchise-record 104 wins, securing the division title by a comfortable 15-game margin over the Toronto Blue Jays.
1984: Tigers Under New Ownership
In a significant development in 1984, John Fetzer, the owner of the Detroit Tigers since 1957, sold the team to Tom Monaghan, the founder of Domino's Pizza, for a sum of $53 million.
1984: Verlander's No-Hitter
In a notable 2007 game, Justin Verlander pitched the Detroit Tigers' first no-hitter since Jack Morris's in 1984, and the first ever at Comerica Park, defeating the Milwaukee Brewers 4-0.
1984: Trammell Manages Former Teammates
In 2003, Alan Trammell, a key member of the Detroit Tigers' 1984 championship team, was appointed as the team's manager. He was joined on the coaching staff by former teammates Kirk Gibson and Lance Parrish, marking a reunion of the franchise's glory days.
1985: Third-Place Finish
The Detroit Tigers concluded the 1985 season in third place, marking a step back from their championship-winning performance in the previous year.
1986: Another Third-Place Finish
For the second consecutive year, the Detroit Tigers finished the 1986 season in third place, unable to replicate their 1984 championship success.
1987: Tigers' Resurgence and Doyle Alexander Trade
Despite a slow start in 1987, the Detroit Tigers mounted a resurgence, fueled in part by the acquisition of pitcher Doyle Alexander from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for John Smoltz.
1987: Tigers Break Division Title Drought Dating Back to 1987
In 2011, the Detroit Tigers ended their division title drought, securing their first such title since 1987.
1987: Tigers Clinch AL East Title
On October 4, 1987, the Detroit Tigers secured the American League East title with a 1-0 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays at Tiger Stadium, concluding the season with a 98-64 record.
1987: Detroit Tigers' Second AL East Division Title
The Detroit Tigers added to their list of accomplishments in 1987 by securing their second AL East division title.
1987: Return to Playoffs
The Detroit Tigers ended a playoff drought in 1987, marking their return to contention.
1987: Loss of Kirk Gibson
The Detroit Tigers faced a setback in the offseason following their 1987 division title as they lost key player Kirk Gibson to free agency.
1987: Tigers Fall Short in ALCS
The Detroit Tigers' 1987 season ended in disappointment as they were defeated by the Minnesota Twins in the American League Championship Series (ALCS), with the Twins ultimately winning the World Series that year.
1988: Tigers' Late-Season Slump
Despite spending a significant portion of the 1988 season in first place, the Detroit Tigers experienced a late-season slump, ultimately finishing second in the American League East with an 88-74 record, one game behind the Boston Red Sox.
1989: Team Collapse and Rebuilding Efforts
The Detroit Tigers experienced a major setback in 1989, finishing with the worst record in the majors at 59-103. This prompted a rebuilding phase focused on power hitting, bringing in players like Cecil Fielder, Rob Deer, and Mickey Tettleton.
December 1990: Departure of Ernie Harwell Announced
The Detroit Tigers and radio station WJR made the controversial announcement in December 1990 that they would not be renewing the contract of legendary broadcaster Ernie Harwell. This sparked outrage and protests from fans who revered the Hall of Fame announcer.
1990: Cecil Fielder's Power Surge
Cecil Fielder made a huge impact for the Tigers in 1990, leading the American League with an impressive 51 home runs. This feat marked the first time a player had hit 50 home runs since George Foster in 1977 and the first instance in the AL since Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle in 1961.
1991: Fielder's Continued Success and Harwell's Last Season
Cecil Fielder continued his dominance in 1991, hitting 44 home runs and driving in 132 runs, solidifying his presence as a premier power hitter. Sadly, the season marked the end of an era as beloved broadcaster Ernie Harwell called his final games for the Tigers.
1991: Verlander's No-Hitter and 20-Win Season
Justin Verlander achieved a remarkable feat in 2011, throwing his second career no-hitter, the seventh in Tigers history, against the Toronto Blue Jays. He also became the first Tiger since Bill Gullickson in 1991 to achieve 20 wins in a season.
August 1992: Mike Ilitch Acquires the Tigers
In a significant moment for the franchise, Mike Ilitch, the President and CEO of Little Caesars Pizza and owner of the Detroit Red Wings, purchased the Detroit Tigers in August 1992. One of Ilitch's initial actions as owner was to bring back the beloved broadcaster Ernie Harwell, a decision met with widespread approval from the fanbase.
1992: Verlander Becomes First Pitcher Since 1992 to Win AL MVP
Justin Verlander's exceptional 2011 season earned him the AL MVP award, making him the first pitcher to achieve this feat since Dennis Eckersley in 1992.
1992: Mike Ilitch Purchases the Detroit Tigers
Mike Ilitch became the owner of the Detroit Tigers in 1992.
1992: Sparky Anderson Breaks Hughie Jennings' Managerial Win Record
Sparky Anderson, the manager of the Detroit Tigers, etched his name in the team's history books in 1992 by surpassing Hughie Jennings' long-standing record for managerial wins.
1993: Tigers Achieve Winning Record
The Detroit Tigers, under new ownership, achieved a winning record in 1993, finishing the season with 85 wins and 77 losses. This marked a period of optimism for the franchise.
1993: End of a Drought
In 1993, the Detroit Tigers broke a streak of losing seasons, marking a turning point in their history.
1994: Start of a Losing Streak
The Detroit Tigers embarked on a period of struggles, beginning in 1994, marking the beginning of the longest sub-.500 stretch in the franchise's history.
October 2, 1995: Sparky Anderson Retires
On October 2, 1995, Sparky Anderson, manager of the Detroit Tigers, made the significant decision to retire from baseball, marking the end of an era for the franchise.
1995: End of Anderson's Tenure
George "Sparky" Anderson concluded his tenure as manager of the Detroit Tigers in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of success.
1995: Tigers Introduce Navy Blue Alternate Jersey
In 1995, the Tigers wore a navy blue alternate jersey for one home game. This jersey featured the team's primary logo at the time, a tiger stepping through the "D."
1996: Tigers Set Franchise Losing Record
Under the leadership of new general manager Randy Smith, the Detroit Tigers experienced one of their most challenging seasons in 1996, setting a franchise record for losses with a dismal 109 defeats.
1997: Acquisition of Gary Sheffield
The Detroit Tigers acquired outfielder Gary Sheffield, who had been part of the 1997 World Series champion Florida Marlins under Jim Leyland's management.
1997: Tigers Show Improvement
The Detroit Tigers showed some improvement during their losing streak, achieving a record of 79-83 in 1997.
1998: Tigers Move to AL Central
In 1998, Major League Baseball underwent a realignment, and the Detroit Tigers were moved from the American League East, where they had been since the divisions' inception in 1969, to the newly formed American League Central. This change was primarily driven by the addition of the expansion team, the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.
1998: Bally Sports Detroit Acquires Tigers' Rights
Bally Sports Detroit, then known as Pro-Am Sports System, became the Detroit Tigers' local television rights holder in 1998.
1998: Tigers Clinch First AL Central Title Since Joining Division
After joining the AL Central Division in 1998, the Detroit Tigers celebrated their first division title in 2011, breaking a long-awaited victory drought.
1999: End of an Era at Tiger Stadium
The Detroit Tigers bid farewell to Tiger Stadium in 1999, closing a significant chapter in the team's history.
2000: Comerica Park's Difficult Dimensions
Comerica Park, the new home of the Detroit Tigers, quickly drew criticism for its expansive outfield dimensions, which were perceived as being particularly challenging for hitters aiming to hit home runs. The distance to left-center field, measuring 395 feet, was a particular point of contention, earning the stadium the derisive nickname "Comerica National Park."
2000: Todd Jones Breaks Hiller's Saves Record
In 2000, Todd Jones surpassed John Hiller's record of 38 saves for the Detroit Tigers, recording an impressive 42 saves.
2000: Detroit Tigers Move to Comerica Park
In 2000, the Detroit Tigers bid farewell to their old home and moved into the state-of-the-art Comerica Park, ushering in a new era for the franchise.
2000: Tigers Move to Comerica Park
In a significant moment for the franchise, the Detroit Tigers bid farewell to their longtime home, Tiger Stadium, in 2000, and moved into their new ballpark, Comerica Park.
2000: Tigers Match Previous Best During Losing Streak
The Detroit Tigers matched their previous best record during their losing streak in 2000, finishing the season with a 79-83 record.
2001: Dave Dombrowski Joins the Tigers
In a move aimed at revitalizing the franchise, the Detroit Tigers brought in Dave Dombrowski, the architect of the 1997 World Series champion Florida Marlins, as team president in late 2001.
2002: Verlander's Historic 20-Win Pace
Justin Verlander's 20-win season in 2011 was particularly noteworthy as he reached the milestone before the end of August, a feat not accomplished in Major League Baseball since Curt Schilling in 2002.
2002: Tigers' Struggles Lead to Changes
The Detroit Tigers' struggles continued into the 2002 season, beginning with an 0-6 start. This prompted Dave Dombrowski to make significant changes, dismissing both general manager Randy Smith and manager Phil Garner. Dombrowski assumed the role of general manager, and bench coach Luis Pujols was appointed as the interim manager for the remainder of the season. Despite these changes, the team finished with a disappointing 55-106 record, leading to Pujols's departure at the season's end.
August 30, 2003: Tigers Reach 100 Losses
The Detroit Tigers reached a grim milestone on August 30, 2003, when they suffered their 100th loss of the season. This unfortunate feat put them in the company of the 1962 New York Mets, an expansion team in their inaugural season, as the only modern Major League Baseball teams to reach 100 losses before September.
2003: Detroit Tigers' Most Challenging Season
The Detroit Tigers faced their most challenging season in 2003, recording their lowest winning percentage.
2003: Detroit Tigers' Previous Worst Season
The Detroit Tigers' 43-119 record in 2003 stood as their worst season in franchise history.
2003: Tigers' Pitching Staff Sets New Strikeout Record
The Detroit Tigers' pitching staff made history during the 2013 season, setting a new franchise record for strikeouts. Their 1,428 strikeouts surpassed the previous record of 1,404 held by the 2003 Chicago Cubs.
2003: Tigers Set Franchise Losing Record
The 2003 season was one to forget for the Detroit Tigers, as they set a new franchise record for losses, finishing the season with a dismal 43-119 record. This surpassed the previous American League record of 117 losses set by the 1916 Philadelphia Athletics.
2003: Worst Season in Tigers History
The 2003 season marked the worst in Detroit Tigers history, surpassing their 1952 record, with the team losing 119 games.
2003: Tigers Adjust Comerica Park's Dimensions
Responding to criticism of Comerica Park's pitcher-friendly dimensions, the Detroit Tigers made adjustments in 2003 to make the ballpark more hitter-friendly. The left-center field fence was moved in to 370 feet, and the flagpole that had been in play was removed.
2003: Tigers Reacquire Omar Infante After Five Seasons
In 2012, Omar Infante rejoined the Detroit Tigers, marking his return to the team he had previously played for from 2003 to 2007.
2004: Tigers Show Improvement
After a disastrous 2003 season, the Detroit Tigers, under the guidance of Dave Dombrowski, made significant changes to their roster, bringing in talented but somewhat risky veterans. This strategic gamble paid off, as the team showed remarkable improvement, finishing the 2004 season with a 72-90 record, a 29-game improvement from the previous year.
June 8, 2005: Tigers Acquire Plácido Polanco
In a significant trade on June 8, 2005, the Detroit Tigers acquired second baseman Plácido Polanco from the Philadelphia Phillies in exchange for pitcher Ugueth Urbina and infielder Ramón Martínez.
October 2005: Manager Change and Player Signings
In October 2005, the Detroit Tigers appointed Jim Leyland, who had previously led the Florida Marlins to a World Series victory in 1997 under Dombrowski's management. This move signaled a change in leadership for the team. Additionally, due to Troy Percival's arm issues, the Tigers signed Todd Jones, a former Tiger (1997-2001), to a two-year contract to fill the closer position.
2005: Detroit Tigers Introduce "Who's Your Tiger?" Slogan
The Detroit Tigers began using the phrase "Who's Your Tiger?" as their official slogan in 2005.
2005: Tigers Host All-Star Game
The Detroit Tigers had the honor of hosting the Major League Baseball All-Star Game in 2005, marking the first time the Midsummer Classic was held in Detroit since 1971.
2005: End of a Losing Streak
The Detroit Tigers' long streak of losing seasons finally came to an end in 2005.
2005: Further Adjustments to Comerica Park
Continuing with the adjustments to Comerica Park, the Detroit Tigers made further changes in 2005, relocating the bullpens to the previously vacant area beyond the left-field fence. This allowed for the creation of additional seating in the area where the bullpens were previously situated.
2006: Detroit Tigers Return to the World Series
After a long wait, the Detroit Tigers ended their World Series drought in 2006, returning to baseball's biggest stage.
2006: "Gum Time" Becomes Popular Phrase
During a game against the New York Yankees in June 2006, Detroit Tigers pitcher Nate Robertson was spotted stuffing Big League Chew bubble gum into his mouth during an in-game interview. The Tigers then rallied to tie the game, leading to the phrase "Gum Time" becoming popular among fans and the team.
2006: Tigers' Playoff Drought
Following their appearance in the 1987 postseason, the Detroit Tigers endured a long playoff drought, not returning to the playoffs until 2006.
2006: Dombrowski's Farm System Development
In 2006, Dave Dombrowski, the Tigers' general manager, focused on cultivating a productive farm system, which yielded key players like Justin Verlander and Joel Zumaya.
2006: Tigers' Resurgence and Playoff Run
The Detroit Tigers experienced a resurgence in 2006, fueled by standout rookie performances from Justin Verlander, Curtis Granderson, and Joel Zumaya, along with a motivational outburst from manager Jim Leyland. They achieved their first winning season since 1993 and secured their first playoff appearance since 1987. Despite a late-season slump, they clinched the AL wild card.
2006: Tigers' Playoff Run and World Series Appearance
The Detroit Tigers, in the 2006 playoffs, exceeded expectations by defeating the favored New York Yankees and sweeping the Oakland Athletics, aided by Magglio Ordóñez's walk-off home run. They then advanced to the World Series but lost to the St. Louis Cardinals in five games.
September 26, 2007: Tigers' Season Ends
The Detroit Tigers were officially eliminated from playoff contention on September 26, 2007, when the New York Yankees secured a wild card berth. Despite a strong start, the Tigers finished the season 88-74, placing second in the AL Central.
2007: Bullpen Struggles
The Detroit Tigers' bullpen struggled in 2007, an issue they aimed to address in subsequent seasons.
2007: Rising Prospects
The Detroit Tigers saw the emergence of promising prospects in 2007, including Andrew Miller, drafted in 2006, and Cameron Maybin, a highly-rated outfield prospect.
2007: Ordóñez's Batting Title
Magglio Ordóñez secured the American League batting title in 2007 with a .363 average, marking the first time a Detroit Tigers player had achieved this since Norm Cash in 1961.
September 25, 2008: Jones' Retirement and Tigers' Disappointing Season
The Detroit Tigers endured a disappointing 2008 season, ending with a 74-88 record despite a high payroll and the additions of Édgar Rentería, Miguel Cabrera, and Dontrelle Willis. Justin Verlander struggled, and closer Todd Jones retired on September 25, 2008. On a positive note, the team set a new attendance record at Comerica Park.
2008: Jackson's All-Star Season
Edwin Jackson, acquired by the Detroit Tigers, had a standout year in 2008, earning a spot on the All-Star team.
2008: Tigers Renew with Bally Sports Detroit
The Detroit Tigers renewed their television rights deal with Bally Sports Detroit in 2008, reportedly through 2021.
2009: Tigers' Late-Season Collapse and Tie-Breaker Loss
Despite improvements in 2009, the Detroit Tigers suffered another late-season collapse, surrendering a substantial lead in the AL Central and ending up tied with the Minnesota Twins. They lost the tie-breaker game on October 6, finishing with an 86-77 record. This marked a heartbreaking end to a season that had held much promise.
2009: Detroit Tigers Use "Always a Tiger" Slogan
The Detroit Tigers adopted the phrase "Always a Tiger" as their slogan in 2009.
2009: Tigers' Roster Changes and Improved Pitching
The Detroit Tigers made key roster moves before the 2009 season, acquiring Edwin Jackson and promoting Rick Porcello, both of whom made significant pitching contributions. Justin Verlander rebounded from a poor 2008, and the bullpen saw improvement with Fernando Rodney as closer and a strengthened supporting cast.
June 2, 2010: Galarraga's Near-Perfect Game
On June 2, 2010, Armando Galarraga of the Detroit Tigers was on the verge of pitching a perfect game against the Cleveland Indians when a controversial call by umpire Jim Joyce cost him the historic achievement. Despite video replay showing the final out was indeed an out, the call stood, sparking widespread debate about umpire error and the need for expanded instant replay in baseball.
2010: Key Additions to the Tigers
Following the 2010 season, the Detroit Tigers made strategic additions to their roster, bringing in relief pitcher Joaquín Benoit, catcher/DH Victor Martinez, and starting pitcher Brad Penny to bolster their lineup.
2010: Roster Changes and Rookie Debuts
The Detroit Tigers entered 2010 with roster changes, acquiring Austin Jackson, Phil Coke, Max Scherzer, and Daniel Schlereth in a trade. Jackson earned Rookie of the Month honors, and Brennan Boesch also debuted, winning the same award later in the season.
May 7, 2011: Justin Verlander's No-Hitter
Justin Verlander pitched a no-hitter on May 7, 2011, which was the last one by a Detroit Tigers pitcher until Spencer Turnbull's no-hitter on May 18, 2021.
2011: Tigers' 2012 Division Title Marks First Back-to-Back Playoff Appearances Since 1934-35
The Detroit Tigers' 2012 AL Central division title secured their second consecutive playoff appearance, a feat not accomplished since the 1934-35 seasons.
2011: Detroit Tigers' First AL Central Division Championship
The Detroit Tigers marked a significant achievement in 2011 by capturing their first-ever AL Central division championship, signaling a new era of success for the franchise.
2011: Tigers Players Rake in Statistical Awards in 2011
The Detroit Tigers dominated the 2011 season, earning multiple statistical awards. Justin Verlander secured the pitching Triple Crown and both the AL Cy Young Award and AL MVP. José Valverde led the AL in saves, receiving the MLB Delivery Man of the Year Award. Miguel Cabrera secured the AL batting title, leading in on-base percentage and doubles.
2011: Detroit Tigers Revive "Who's Your Tiger?" Slogan
The Detroit Tigers brought back their popular "Who's Your Tiger?" slogan in 2011.
2011: Five Tigers Selected for the 2011 All-Star Game
In 2011, the Detroit Tigers showcased their talent with five players selected for the All-Star Game. Catcher Alex Avila earned a starting position, while Justin Verlander, José Valverde, and Miguel Cabrera were chosen as reserves. Jhonny Peralta later joined the team as a replacement for the injured Derek Jeter.
2011: Tigers Aim to Defend AL Central Title in 2012
Following their success in 2011, the Detroit Tigers entered the 2012 season determined to defend their AL Central Division title and make another playoff run.
2011: José Valverde Sets New Saves Record
Detroit Tigers' pitcher José Valverde set a new franchise record with an exceptional 49 saves in 2011, surpassing previous records set by John Hiller and Todd Jones.
November 15, 2012: Cabrera Wins AL MVP
On November 15, 2012, Miguel Cabrera was named the American League's Most Valuable Player for the 2012 season.
2012: Tigers Aim to Defend AL Pennant in 2013
Entering the 2013 season, the Detroit Tigers set their sights on defending their American League pennant from the previous year.
2012: Tigers Make Key Roster Moves for the 2012 Season
In 2012, the Detroit Tigers made significant roster adjustments. They signed Prince Fielder to a lucrative contract, moved Miguel Cabrera back to third base, and released Brandon Inge. They also traded for Omar Infante and Aníbal Sánchez.
2012: Tigers Secure Back-to-Back Division Titles for the First Time
The Detroit Tigers achieved a historic milestone in 2012 by clinching back-to-back AL Central division titles for the first time in franchise history, showcasing their dominance in the division.
2012: Detroit Tigers Clinch Back-to-Back AL Pennants
The Detroit Tigers made it to back-to-back World Series appearances by winning the American League pennant in 2012, showcasing their dominance in the American League.
August 7, 2013: Tigers Fans and Cleveland Fans Exchange Chants
During a game on August 7, 2013, between the Detroit Tigers and the Cleveland Indians (now Guardians), fans of both teams engaged in chants. While the game was tied in the 9th inning, Tigers fans chanted "Let's go Tigers!" which was countered by Cleveland fans with "Detroit's bankrupt!" referencing the city's financial situation at the time. The incident drew criticism toward Cleveland fans, and the Tigers ultimately won the game 6-5 in 14 innings.
November 20, 2013: Tigers Make Significant Trades
On November 20, 2013, the Detroit Tigers executed two impactful trades: they sent Prince Fielder to the Texas Rangers for Ian Kinsler and cash considerations and traded Doug Fister to the Washington Nationals for Steve Lombardozzi Jr., Ian Krol, and Robbie Ray.
2013: Tigers Make Offseason Moves to Bolster Roster
Before the 2013 season, the Detroit Tigers made key acquisitions, including signing Torii Hunter and Aníbal Sánchez to contracts, as well as adding Brayan Peña to their roster. Additionally, Justin Verlander secured a significant contract extension.
2013: Max Scherzer Breaks George Mullin's Record
In 2013, Detroit Tigers pitcher Max Scherzer etched his name in the team's record books by surpassing George Mullin's 104-year-old record for the best start to a season.
2013: Tigers Seek to Improve Bullpen After 2013 Struggles
The Detroit Tigers entered the 2014 season focused on improving their bullpen, which had been an area of concern in 2013.
2013: Detroit Tigers' Third Consecutive AL Central Title
The Detroit Tigers extended their dominance in the AL Central by winning their third consecutive division title in 2013.
May 2, 2014: Tigers Sign Joel Hanrahan to Bolster Bullpen
On May 2, 2014, the Detroit Tigers signed free agent reliever Joel Hanrahan to a one-year contract with the goal of strengthening their struggling bullpen.
2014: Detroit Tigers Secure Fourth Straight AL Central Crown
The Detroit Tigers cemented their reign over the AL Central in 2014, securing an impressive fourth consecutive division title.
2014: Detroit Tigers Win AL Central Division
The Detroit Tigers, under manager Brad Ausmus, achieved a 314-332 record and clinched the American League Central division title in 2014.
2014: J.D. Martinez Makes Franchise History in ALDS
During the 2014 American League Division Series (ALDS), J.D. Martinez etched his name in Detroit Tigers history by becoming the first player in franchise history to hit home runs in his first two postseason games. Both home runs were part of back-to-back displays, with Víctor Martínez in Game 1 and Nick Castellanos in Game 2.
2015: Tigers Send Four Players to the 2015 MLB All-Star Game
Despite facing difficulties, the Detroit Tigers showcased their talent in 2015 by sending four players to the MLB All-Star Game. Miguel Cabrera was selected for his 10th All-Star Game but could not participate due to injury. David Price received his 5th selection and earned the win for the American League. Both J.D. Martinez and José Iglesias celebrated their first All-Star Game selections.
2015: John Smoltz's Hall of Fame Induction
In 2015, John Smoltz, a Michigan native who was traded from the Detroit Tigers to the Atlanta Braves in 1987, was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame after a long and successful career.
2015: Detroit Tigers Acquire Michael Fulmer
The Detroit Tigers acquired pitcher Michael Fulmer from the New York Mets organization in 2015.
2015: End of the 2015 Season for the Detroit Tigers
The Detroit Tigers finished the 2015 season in the bottom ten, resulting in the loss of draft picks but retention of their first-round pick.
2016: Detroit Tigers Roster Changes
The Detroit Tigers made significant changes to their roster in 2016, adding players like Jordan Zimmermann and Justin Upton through free agency and trades. They also lost key players like Alex Avila and Rajai Davis to other teams.
2016: Tigers Sign Joe Nathan to Two-Year Contract with Club Option for 2016
Seeking to solidify their bullpen, the Detroit Tigers signed veteran closer Joe Nathan to a two-year, $20 million contract. The deal included a club option for the 2016 season.
2016: Chicago Cubs End Their Championship Drought
In 2016, the Chicago Cubs finally broke their long-standing championship drought, ending a period of frustration and bringing joy to their devoted fans.
2016: Michael Fulmer Wins AL Rookie of the Year
In 2016, Detroit Tigers pitcher Michael Fulmer, who was acquired from the New York Mets in 2015, won the American League Rookie of the Year Award.
2016: Tigers' Average Viewership
During the 2016 season, the Detroit Tigers averaged 138,000 viewers for their primetime television broadcasts, with a 7.56 rating.
February 10, 2017: Mike Ilitch Passes Away
Mike Ilitch, the owner of the Detroit Tigers since 1992, passed away on February 10, 2017, at the age of 87. The team's ownership transitioned to his son, Christopher Ilitch, under an Ilitch family trust. The Tigers honored Ilitch with various tributes, including a "Mr. I" patch on their uniforms.
October 20, 2017: Ron Gardenhire Becomes Detroit Tigers Manager
On October 20, 2017, the Detroit Tigers appointed Ron Gardenhire, former manager of the Minnesota Twins, as their new manager, replacing Brad Ausmus. The team agreed to a three-year contract with Gardenhire.
2017: Detroit Tigers Begin Rebuilding Phase
Following a disappointing first half of the 2017 season, the Detroit Tigers initiated a rebuilding process by trading key players like J.D. Martinez, Alex Avila, Justin Wilson, Justin Upton, and Justin Verlander. They also announced that manager Brad Ausmus's contract would not be extended after the season, concluding his four-year tenure with a 314-332 record.
2017: Tigers Participate in Inaugural Players Weekend
The Detroit Tigers wore special jerseys for the inaugural Players Weekend in 2017, featuring grey jerseys with bright orange and a tiger on the cap instead of the Old English "D."
2017: Tigers' Television Ratings
Through 25 games in 2017, the Detroit Tigers averaged a 5.57 rating, ranking fifth in Major League Baseball.
2018: Detroit Tigers Secure First Overall Pick in 2018 Draft
The Detroit Tigers finished the 2017 season tied for the worst record in Major League Baseball with the San Francisco Giants, securing the first overall pick in the 2018 MLB Draft based on a tiebreaker.
2018: Tigers' Players Weekend Jerseys in 2018
For Players Weekend in 2018, the Detroit Tigers wore blue jerseys with orange sleeves and "Tigers" on the chest. Their orange caps featured a tiger logo.
2018: Tigers Adjust Old English "D" Logo
In 2018, the Tigers made changes to their Old English "D" logo, making the one on their home uniforms match the sharper-cornered hat logo. The hat logo was also enlarged.
2018: The Rally Goose
During the 2018 season, a goose interrupted a game against the Los Angeles Angels and landed on the field. It later flew into the scoreboard but was unharmed. The Tigers won the game, leading to the goose being nicknamed the "Rally Goose."
2019: Tigers Revert to Smaller Cap Logo
In 2019, the Tigers returned to the smaller version of their cap logo while keeping the curved "D" on their home jerseys.
2019: Detroit Tigers Finish with Worst Record in MLB
The Detroit Tigers had a difficult 2019 season, finishing with a 47-114 record, the worst in Major League Baseball and their second-worst season in franchise history. They tied the 1939 St. Louis Browns for the most home losses (59) in a single season in the modern era.
October 30, 2020: A.J. Hinch Becomes Detroit Tigers Manager
The Detroit Tigers hired A.J. Hinch as their manager on October 30, 2020.
May 18, 2021: Spencer Turnbull Throws No-Hitter
Spencer Turnbull made history on May 18, 2021, by pitching the eighth no-hitter in Detroit Tigers history against the Seattle Mariners. It was the first no-hitter by a Tigers pitcher since Justin Verlander's on May 7, 2011.
2021: Potential End of Rights Deal
The Detroit Tigers' renewed television rights deal with Bally Sports Detroit in 2008 was reported to run until 2021.
August 10, 2022: Al Avila Fired as General Manager
On August 10, 2022, the Detroit Tigers made a significant change by firing Al Avila from his position as general manager.
September 19, 2022: Scott Harris Hired as President of Baseball Operations
The Detroit Tigers hired Scott Harris for the role of president of baseball operations on September 19, 2022.
October 25, 2022: Rob Metzler Joins as Vice President and Assistant General Manager
Rob Metzler was appointed as vice president and assistant general manager of the Detroit Tigers on October 25, 2022.
September 21, 2023: Jeff Greenberg Becomes General Manager
The Detroit Tigers appointed Jeff Greenberg as their general manager on September 21, 2023.
2023: Detroit Tigers in the Present Day
As of 2023, the Detroit Tigers continue to compete in Major League Baseball.
2023: Tigers Partner with Meijer for Uniform Sponsorship
The Detroit Tigers entered a uniform sponsorship deal with Michigan-based supermarket chain Meijer in 2023. The patch is featured on either sleeve, depending on the player's handedness.
2024: Tigers' Television Rights with Bally Sports Detroit
As of 2024, Bally Sports Detroit holds the exclusive local television rights for the Detroit Tigers.
2024: Lolich's Legacy
As of 2024, Mickey Lolich holds the distinction of being the last pitcher to secure three complete-game victories in a single World Series. This accomplishment underscores his significant contribution to the Tigers' 1968 championship win.
2024: Tigers Unveil City Connect Jersey
The Detroit Tigers revealed their first City Connect jersey in 2024, paying tribute to Detroit's automobile industry with a navy blue design, electric blue tire tread patterns, and racing stripes.