Detroit Tigers to Sport Meijer Ads on Sleeves as Part of Expanded Partnership

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.

Courtesy Detroit Tigers

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.

Courtesy @meijer / Twitter

“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.

Tigers mascot PAWS takes photos with employees of a Detroit Meijer store during Thursday’s announcement. (Courtesy @PAWSDetroit / Twitter)

“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