Norman “Turkey” Stearnes, Jake Woods, and Willie Horton, courtesy of MLB and Comerica
This weekend, Comerica Park will echo with more than just the crack of the bat and roars of the crowd. From June 13–15, the Detroit Tigers, in partnership with Comerica Bank, will celebrate Black in Baseball Weekend, a high-energy tribute to Black culture, community, and contributions to America’s pastime.
The three-day celebration will include concerts, ceremonies, youth clinics, a step show, art, food from iconic Black-owned vendors, and, of course, baseball. Set against the backdrop of the Tigers’ series against the Cincinnati Reds, the event aims to honor both the past and future of Black excellence in the sport.
Kicking It Off: Honoring History and Setting the Stage
Festivities begin Thursday evening, June 12, with the Black Diamond Dinner, an invite-only event spotlighting changemakers and trailblazers in the community. The dinner sets the tone for a weekend rooted in legacy, empowerment, and community connection.
On Friday morning, youth from Tigers’ baseball and softball camps will gather at Comerica Park for a private clinic. Although not open to the public, the clinic underscores the weekend’s commitment to uplifting youth through sport. Later that day, local softball players will be honored in recognition of World Softball Day, and young athletes from the Black Baseball Motor City Classic will attend the evening game as special guests.
Another impactful Friday event is the Black in Baseball Career Mixer, hosted in partnership with the Black Sports Professionals network. Taking place in a private suite and followed by an on-site block party, the mixer brings together aspiring professionals and mentors to discuss pathways into sports careers.
Throughout the entire weekend, fans will have the chance to explore the legacy of Detroit’s Negro League greats through a special exhibit by The True Black History Museum (TBHM) founded by Fred J. Saffold, III. On display during all three games, the exhibit showcases a powerful collection of photographs, biographies, and rare artifacts honoring the players who helped shape baseball history. Located near the Rocket Mortgage entrance, the display will offer a deeper connection to the city’s rich cultural and athletic heritage.
Youth viewing the TBHM exhibit 2024, courtesy of MLB and The True Black History Museum
Friday Night Lights and Legends
The energy surges Friday evening with the Black in Baseball Block Party starting at 4:30 p.m. on the Comerica Park concourse. Visitors can enjoy a Black-owned business marketplace, food trucks, and performances from DJs Mo Beatz and Ro Spit. At 5:30 p.m., members of Wayne State University’s Divine 9 will hit the pavement for a high-energy step show.
Fans can also meet Detroit artist Allison Sims, whose commissioned piece for the Tigers Collective will be available in limited signed prints.
In a heartfelt pregame tradition, the Passing of the Bat ceremony will honor Kole Waterman, a graduating senior at DEPSA High School and longtime participant in the Tigers’ Nike RBI team. Waterman will symbolically receive the bat, representing the next generation of Black excellence in baseball.
The evening concludes with a Hip-Hop Night celebration and a postgame concert from Ludacris. Fans lucky enough to RSVP will be allowed on the field for the first three songs, a rare and unforgettable experience.
Saturday: Clinics, Jerseys, and Living History
Saturday morning features a free public clinic for kids ages 4–14 as part of MLB’s Play Ball Weekend. From 10 a.m. to noon, over 350 youth will take the field to learn baseball fundamentals and have fun.
Inside the park, the first 15,000 fans will receive an exclusive Black in Baseball jersey designed by Detroit native Randall Yarborough, who will also be on site to meet fans.
The day also brings an emotional tribute to the icons of the game. Seven former Negro Leagues players and team owner Minnie Forbes will be in attendance. Fans can hear their stories during an 11:30 a.m. concourse Q&A, followed by a special on-field pregame ceremony honoring their legacy. The ceremony will open with a stirring performance of Lift Every Voice and Sing by Joyce Stearnes Thompson and Rosilyn Stearnes-Brown, daughters of Negro Leagues legend Turkey Stearnes.
courtesy of MLB and Comerica
Sunday: Spotlight on the Next Generation
Sunday closes out the weekend with more youth programming, as members of the Motor City Black Baseball Classic high school team will be recognized in-game for their achievements. Media will have the opportunity to interview the athletes and access exclusive footage from the weekend’s earlier clinics.
The Detroit Youth Choir will take center field for the national anthem, infusing the stadium with the voices and spirit of the city’s next generation.
A Celebration of Culture, Food, and Giving
All weekend long, fans can explore Black-owned businesses and vendors across the stadium. From the Lobster Food Truck at Section 101 to the legendary Bert’s BBQ near Section 133 an Eastern Market staple since the 1960s—there’s something for every appetite.
Retail lovers can shop a pop-up from Pro Standard Apparel, while those looking to give back can participate in the 50/50 raffles. Friday’s raffle will support Wayne State University’s National Panhellenic Council, with Saturday and Sunday proceeds benefiting the Black Sports Business Academy. Comerica Bank will match donations up to a specified amount each day.
Black in Baseball Weekend is more than a celebration it’s a reminder of Detroit’s rich history, vibrant culture, and deep connections to the game of baseball. With community at its heart, the event promises something for everyone from seasoned fans to first-time attendees.
So grab your jersey, bring your energy, and join the Tigers in honoring the past while cheering for the future.
For more information and to register youth for weekend events, visit https://www.mlb.com/tigers/community/youth/play-ball-weekend
For tickets and to purchase apparel, visit https://www.mlb.com/tigers/tickets/promotions/2025/black-in-baseball.
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