The Detroit Tigers are keeping things local as they become the latest Major League Baseball team to wear ad patches on their jersey sleeves.
The Tigers announced on Thursday, May 25, they would wear a patch with the logo of Michigan-based grocery chain Meijer on both their home and away jerseys as part of an “expanded partnership” between the two organizations.
The patches made their debut the same day as the announcement as the Tigers opened a series at home against the Chicago White Sox.
The patch on the home jersey is white with a navy blue Meijer wordmark. It matches the aesthetic of the Tigers’ home uniforms, which have remained virtually the same since the late 1930s.
On the Tigers’ away jerseys, the patch is navy blue with orange and white outlines, matching the “Detroit” script and the number on the front. The Meijer wordmark is white.
“The Detroit Tigers and Meijer are synonymous with the state of Michigan, and we’re thrilled to extend our partnership with an organization that has a common vision about community engagement. These are two of the most iconic brands in the state, creating millions of memories for fans and families each year. We appreciate Meijer’s support and partnership, and look forward to working together serving our great fans and customers for years to come.”
— Ryan Gustafson, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Ilitch Sports + Entertainment
The Tigers and Meijer also announced the new “Striking Out Hunger” initiative on Thursday. Every time a Tigers pitcher strikes out an opposing batter, $100 will be donated to Meijer’s Simply Give hunger relief program. Since November 2008, Simply Give has generated more than $80 million in donations to local food pantries across the Midwest United States.
“When you think about Michigan, Meijer and the Detroit Tigers are quintessential brands. Both organizations are rich with history and a genuine commitment to community, which spans generations. The creation of the Striking Out Hunger initiative enhances this relationship, while supporting families in need throughout our state. We’re so pleased to strengthen our longstanding partnership with the Tigers and the Detroit community.”
— Rick Keyes, president and chief executive officer, Meijer
Major League Baseball started allowing teams to wear ad patches on their jersey sleeves beginning with the 2023 season. Other teams with ad patches so far include the Arizona Diamondbacks, Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, Cincinnati Reds, Houston Astros, Los Angeles Angels, Miami Marlins, New York Mets, San Diego Padres, and St. Louis Cardinals.
Meijer is the second grocery chain to come on board as a jersey sponsor. The Kroger logo appears on Cincinnati Reds jerseys.