June 15th 2025.
The Detroit Tigers are currently in a fantastic position, trailing just half a game behind the best record in the entire Major League Baseball. Not only that, but they are also amidst a six-game homestand, and this weekend, they are celebrating their Black in Baseball Weekend. It's a special occasion that is dedicated to honoring and recognizing the contributions of Black players in the sport.
The highlight of this weekend was the 29th annual Negro Leagues Tribute Game, where the Tigers paid tribute to legendary players like Norman "Turkey" Stearnes, who were instrumental in shaping the team's history. The team also gave away Detroit Stars jerseys to the first 15,000 fans who entered Comerica Park, creating a buzz of excitement among the attendees.
Before the game, there was a Q&A session with former Negro Leagues players, including Minnie Forbes, Johnny Walker, Ron Teasley, and Pedro Sierra. Fans also had the opportunity to visit a mini concourse museum and take photos around the ballpark, creating a truly immersive experience.
The Tigers also made sure to involve the younger generation in the celebrations by inviting Kaleb Johnson and Kyle Terry, the MVPs of the Black Baseball Motor City Classic, to throw and catch the first pitch at the game. It was a special moment to witness, highlighting the importance of fostering diversity and inclusivity in the sport.
But the celebrations didn't end there. The Tigers' Black in Baseball Weekend also coincided with the incorporation of Negro Leagues statistics into the record books of Major League Baseball in 2024. This move by MLB signifies a deeper integration of the Negro Leagues' history and contributions into the sport.
Bob Kendrick, the president of Kansas City's National Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, has been a central figure in this integration and has been instrumental in bringing the Negro Leagues into MLB The Show's Storylines mode over the past years. In an interview with the Today Show, Kendrick expressed that for him, the central question the Negro Leagues asked was, "can you play?" This question challenged the segregation and discrimination present in MLB at the time.
In 2024, Kendrick shared the positive impact that the museum's feature in the video game mode has had in an interview with Paste Magazine. He mentioned that the museum saw record attendance in the month of February, thanks to the game's reach and influence. This has been a significant step in introducing the history and impact of the Negro Leagues to a younger audience.
The Tigers' homestand will conclude on Juneteenth, a day that marks the end of slavery in the United States. On this day, the Tigers have planned a special ceremony, which will include Angela Davis, the President of Detroit's NAACP branch, singing "Lift Every Voice and Sing." Additionally, Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony will throw out the ceremonial first pitch, and Daryl Beebe, a saxophonist, will perform the National Anthem. It's a fitting way to end the homestand and honor the history of the Negro Leagues.
The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum has also recently opened a new exhibit dedicated to Black managers in the sport, highlighting their significant contributions and impact. As we continue to celebrate diversity and inclusivity in baseball, it's essential to recognize and honor the Black players and managers who have paved the way for future generations. The Tigers' Black in Baseball Weekend is just one example of how we can continue to pay tribute to their legacy.
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