Beats, Bats & Black Excellence: Black in Baseball Weekend Hits it Out of the Park in Detroit June 13

June 12, 2025

The Detroit Tigers and Comerica Bank are hosting Black in Baseball Weekend from June 13-15 at Comerica Park, featuring a comprehensive celebration of Black culture and contributions to baseball. The three-day event includes concerts, ceremonies, youth clinics, a step show, and food from Black-owned vendors during the Tigers' series against the Cincinnati Reds. Activities range from the exclusive Black Diamond Dinner honoring community changemakers to public events like the Black in Baseball Block Party and a Ludacris concert.

Who is affected

Youth from Tigers' baseball and softball camps
Local softball players
Young athletes from the Black Baseball Motor City Classic
Aspiring sports professionals
Former Negro Leagues players and team owner Minnie Forbes
Kole Waterman (graduating senior at DEPSA High School)
Children ages 4-14 participating in the free public clinic
Detroit Youth Choir
Black-owned businesses and vendors
Fans attending the games and events
Wayne State University's National Panhellenic Council
Black Sports Business Academy

What action is being taken

Hosting a three-day celebration of Black culture at Comerica Park
Conducting youth clinics for baseball and softball players
Organizing a Black in Baseball Career Mixer for aspiring sports professionals
Running a Black in Baseball Block Party featuring Black-owned businesses and performances
Holding a Passing of the Bat ceremony to honor the next generation
Presenting a special tribute to Negro Leagues players
Distributing exclusive Black in Baseball jerseys designed by Detroit native Randall Yarborough
Operating 50/50 raffles with Comerica Bank matching donations
Featuring Black-owned food vendors throughout the stadium

Why it matters

The event honors both the past and future of Black excellence in baseball
It creates pathways into sports careers for aspiring Black professionals
The weekend showcases Detroit's rich history and vibrant culture
It provides opportunities for youth engagement and development through sports
The celebration recognizes the contributions of Negro Leagues players to baseball history
It supports Black-owned businesses and vendors
The event raises funds for organizations like Wayne State University's National Panhellenic Council and the Black Sports Business Academy

What's next

Youth from the Motor City Black Baseball Classic high school team will be recognized in-game on Sunday for their achievements
Media will have the opportunity to interview the athletes and access exclusive footage from the weekend's clinics
Fans can register youth for weekend events at the MLB website
Tickets and apparel remain available for purchase through the Tigers' website

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle