OFFICIAL DETROIT TIGERS PRESS RELEASES

He put up with me at a game! He is an angel!

can you imagine how hot it must get in that paws costume in the hot summer?

and have drunk fans all over you....
There's a hole in his mouth so he can breathe, but yeah, I would probably lose 5 pounds after one shift in that outfit!

12/04/2008 10:50 AM ET
Tigers announce 2009 Spring Training schedule
Tigers hold prices on 2009 tickets in Lakeland

• Spring Training schedule

DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers today announced the club's exhibition game schedule for 2009 Spring Training in Lakeland, FL. Additionally, the club today announced ticket prices for all exhibition games in 2009 will remain the same as 2008.

Next spring will mark the Tigers 73rd season at "TigerTown" in Lakeland, extending the longest-standing relationship between a Major League team and a current Spring Training host city. The 2009 spring season marks the club's 44th consecutive season of exhibition play at Joker Marchant Stadium.

The Tigers will begin the exhibition schedule on Wednesday, Feb. 25 as the club welcomes the Atlanta Braves to Joker Marchant Stadium, the first of 19 exhibition games played in Lakeland during the upcoming spring. Detroit will host two exhibition games in advance of the World Baseball Classic with Venezuela and Panama on Tuesday, March 3 and Wednesday, March 4, respectively.

Tickets for the 2009 spring exhibition season will be priced at two separate levels, with all prices remaining the same as 2008. The first set is for premium games, which include all games against the Atlanta Braves, New York Mets, New York Yankees and all Friday, Saturday and Sunday games. The second price level is for the remainder of the schedule. Premium game ticket prices range from $10-21, while the ticket prices for the remainder of games range from $8-19.

Season ticket packages for the 2009 Tigers Spring Training exhibition season are on sale now at the Joker Marchant Stadium ticket office or can be ordered by mail at: Detroit Tigers, Attn.: Ticket Office, 2125 N. Lake Ave., Lakeland, FL 33805. Fans may also purchase season tickets at www.tigers.com beginning on Friday, Dec. 12. Individual game tickets go on sale beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 10th, and can be ordered by visiting the ticket office at Joker Marchant Stadium, calling 866-66-TIGER or visiting www.tigers.com. For additional ticket information and special group pricing, call the Lakeland office at 863-686-8075.

12/08/2008 2:18 PM ET
Tigers acquire Gerald Laird from Texas Rangers

DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has acquired catcher Gerald Laird from the Texas Rangers in exchange for righthanded pitchers Carlos Melo and Guillermo Moscoso.

Laird saw action in 95 games for the Rangers in 2008, batting .276 (95-for-344) with 24 doubles, six home runs and 41 RBI. He hit .305 (25-for-82) with seven doubles, two home runs and 14 RBI in 21 games against clubs from the American League Central Division this past season.

"The Tigers organization is pleased to acquire Gerald Laird from the Texas Rangers," Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. "He is a solid addition to our club offensively, defensively and with his ability to handle a pitching staff at the major league level."

In six seasons at the Major League level with Texas, Laird hit .255 (312-for-1225) with 72 doubles, 25 home runs and 134 RBI in 374 games. During his Major League career, he has compiled a .984 fielding percentage behind the plate, while he has thrown out 36.6 percent of baserunners attempting to steal (96-for-262).

Melo appeared in 14 games (13 starts) with the Dominican Summer League Tigers in 2008, posting a 3-3 record and 5.14 ERA (49.0IP/28ER). Melo's contract will be assigned to the Dominican Summer League Rangers by Texas.

Moscoso split the past season between Single A Lakeland and Double A Erie. He posted a 2-3 record and 2.42 ERA (52.0IP/14ER) in 15 appearances (six starts) with Lakeland. In six starts with Erie, Moscoso finished 3-1 with a 3.12 ERA (34.2IP/12ER).

12/09/2008 4:28 PM ET
TigerFest tickets on sale this Friday at 10 AM
Annual winter fan festival, presented by StubHub!, scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 24

DETROIT -- Tigers players and coaches will take a break from their off-season and return to Detroit to take part in the annual TigerFest at Comerica Park on Saturday, January 24, 2009. The 15th Annual TigerFest will take place from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and feature fun for fans of all ages throughout Comerica Park.

Tickets for the annual winter baseball event, presented by StubHub! will go on sale this Friday at 10 a.m. Tickets can be purchased online at www.tigers.com/tigerfest or by calling 866-66-TIGER (84437). The cost of admission will be $12 for adults and $6 for kids 14-and-under. Children three and under are admitted for free.

TigerFest allows fans to get up close and personal with their favorite Tigers players and coaches through autograph sessions, photo booths and seminars. In addition, fans will have the opportunity to tour many unique areas of the ballpark including the Tigers' Clubhouse, Chevrolet Champions Club and the Ernie Harwell Media Center. This year's event will also celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the 1984 World Series Champion Tigers and feature photo opportunities with the 1984 World Series Trophy.

Fan activities will also include major league batting cages, a Tigers speed pitch cage and a historic Tigers museum area. Youngsters will be able to hit in a miniature Home Run Derby, swing in the junior T-ball area, play video games, have their face painted and more. In addition to all the interactive events, Detroit's favorite mascot, PAWS, will be prowling around the park greeting fans of all ages.

Most access areas within the event will be heated and covered as the Tigers create the ultimate "think summer" experience in the middle of winter. However, the Tigers encourage all fans to dress according to the weather as some passageways may not be protected from seasonal elements.

Additional details, including players scheduled to appear at the event, will be announced in early January. For further details and the latest updates, please visit www.tigers.com/tigerfest .

12/11/2008 1:28 PM ET
Tigers select Kyle Bloom from Pittsburgh Pirates

DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has selected lefthanded pitcher Kyle Bloom from the Pittsburgh Pirates in the Major League phase of the Rule 5 Draft.

Bloom posted a 5-8 record, 4.19 ERA (109.2IP/51ER) and 93 strikeouts in 28 outings (22 starts) for Double A Altoona during the 2008 season.

He started seven games for West Oahu in the Hawaii Winter League following the season, compiling a 2-0 record, 1.50 ERA (30.0IP/5ER) and 32 strikeouts. Bloom was second in the league with a 1.50 ERA.

Bloom has compiled a 33-38 record and 4.26 ERA (547.0IP/259ER) in 116 games (110 starts) in five seasons at the Minor League level.

12/11/2008 1:09 PM ET
Fantasy batting practice gift certificates available now
Give the gift of Major League fun this holiday season

DETROIT -- Fans of all ages dream of being part of the action at Comerica Park. This holiday season you can make that dream come true for your favorite sports fan with a gift certificate for a fantasy batting practice session at Comerica Park.

Fantasy batting practices are four-hour sessions on the field at Comerica Park where participants will be able to dig in and bat against former Detroit Tigers. During the weekend sessions, fans will also be able to sit in the dugout, throw in the bullpen, shag flies in the outfield and take ground balls on the infield at Comerica Park.

Gift certificates for fantasy batting practice are priced at $199 and can be purchased by visiting www.tigers.com or by calling (313) 471-2550. Fantasy batting practice sessions will be scheduled during the 2009 season on select Saturdays and Sundays with both morning and afternoon sessions available. Certificates must be redeemed by March 31.

12/11/2008 12:47 AM ET
Tigers acquire Edwin Jackson from Tampa Bay Rays

The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has acquired right-handed pitcher Edwin Jackson from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for outfielder Matt Joyce.

Jackson posted a 14-11 record and 4.42 ERA (183.1IP/90ER) in 32 outings (31 starts) for the Rays during the 2008 season. He made three appearances in relief for the Rays during the post-season, compiling a 2.08 ERA (4.1IP/1ER) and five strikeouts.

"We are thrilled to add an established starter the caliber of Edwin Jackson to our club," Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. "Jackson is coming off a solid season with Rays and we feel he is a tremendous addition to our staff."

Jackson has appeared in 106 games (77 starts) over six seasons at the major league level with the Los Angeles Dodgers (2003-05) and Tampa Bay Rays (2006-08) after being selected by the Dodgers in the sixth round of the June 2001 draft.

Joyce split the 2008 season between Detroit and Triple A Toledo. In 92 games with the Tigers, he hit .252 (61x242) with 16 doubles, 12 home runs and 33 RBI. Joyce batted .270 (54-for-200) with 13 doubles, 13 home runs and 41 RBIs in 56 games for Toledo.

12/12/2008 4:24 PM ET
Tigers agree to terms with Ramon Santiago for 2009 season

DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a contract for the 2009 season with infielder Ramon Santiago, thus avoiding arbitration.

Santiago batted .282 (35x124) in 58 games during the 2008 season for the Tigers, collecting six doubles, two triples, four home runs and 18 RBI.

With Santiago agreeing to terms today, the Tigers now have 13 of the 39 players on the club's 40-man roster under contract for 2009.

12/13/2008 10:45 AM ET
Tigers do not tender Aguilino Lopez a contract for 2009

DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers today announced the club did not tender a contract to right-handed pitcher Aquilino Lopez for the 2009 season.

Lopez appeared in 48 games for the Tigers in 2008, compiling a 4-1 record and 3.55 ERA (78.2IP/31ER). In two seasons with the Tigers, he is 4-1 with a 3.84 ERA (96.0IP/41ER) in 58 outings.

Lopez is now a free agent and eligible to sign with any of the 30 major league clubs.

12/15/2008 11:18 AM ET
Tigers agree to terms with Adam Everett
Shortstop agrees to one-year deal with club

DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a one-year contract with shortstop Adam Everett.

Everett was limited to 48 games with the Minnesota Twins in 2008 due to two separate stints on the disabled list with a right shoulder strain and right shoulder tendinitis. He batted .213 (27x127) with two home runs and 20 RBI for the Twins.

"We are pleased to add Adam Everett to the Tigers organization," Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. "Improving our defense was a priority for our club this winter and we feel Adam is one of the top defensive shortstops in the game."

A veteran of eight seasons at the Major League level with the Houston Astros (2001-07) and Twins (2008), Everett has compiled a .976 fielding percentage at shortstop during his career. A first-round selection by the Boston Red Sox in 1998, he has hit .246 (558x2272) in 697 games at the Major League level.

12/16/2008 3:18 PM ET
Tigers announce Minor League assignments for 2009

DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers today announced the Minor League field staff assignments for the 2009 season.

Mike Rojas returns as the organization's Minor League field coordinator for the 2009 season, while Kevin Bradshaw (infield coordinator), Toby Harrah (hitting coordinator), Jon Matlack (pitching coordinator), Brian Peterson (performance enhancement instructor), Gene Roof (outfield and baserunning coordinator) and Chris Walter (strength and conditioning coordinator) will all return in their respective positions.

Dustin Campbell assumes the position of Minor League medical coordinator in 2009, while Steve Chase will serve as the assistant strength and conditioning coordinator. Sharon Lockwood joins the Tigers as coordinator of international player programs and Bob Frutchery will serve as the Minor League clubhouse manager in Lakeland.

The following are the field staff assignments at each of the organization's eight Minor League affiliates:

Position	Toledo	Erie	Lakeland	West Michigan
Manager	Larry Parrish	Tom Brookens	Andy Barkett	Joe DePastino
Pitching Coach	A.J. Sager	Ray Burris	Joe Coleman	Mark Johnson
Coach	Leon Durham	Glenn Adams	Larry Herndon	Benny Distefano
Trainer	Matt Rankin	Chris McDonald	Tyler DePew	Corey Tremble
Position	Oneonta	GCL Tigers	DSL Tigers	VSL Tigers
Manager	Howie Bushong	Basilio Cabrera	Frey Peniche	Josman Robles
Pitching Coach	Jorge Cordova	Greg Sabat	Jose Parra	TBA
Coach	Luis Quinones	Garrett Guest	Rafael Martinez Pedruin Bautista	Jesus Garces
Trainer	TBA	TBA	Margaro Del Rosario Rafael Suero (strength coach)	Luis Rodriguez

12/16/2008 3:27 PM ET
Todd Jones underwent successful arthroscopic surgery
Retired pitcher had tears in rotator cuff and labrum repaired

DETROIT -- Former Tigers pitcher Todd Jones underwent successful arthroscopic surgery to repair tears in his rotator cuff and labrum on Dec. 9, a procedure performed by Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham, AL.

Jones retired from professional baseball at the end of the 2008 season and upon returning home to Alabama he continued an extensive rehabilitation program on his shoulder before opting to undergo the procedure performed by Dr. Andrews.

Jones pitched for 16 seasons at the Major League level, compiling a 58-63 record, 3.97 ERA (1072.0IP/473ER) and 319 saves in 982 appearances. He concluded his career with 235 saves during his time with the Tigers, the most by a single pitcher in franchise history.

12/17/2008 3:37 PM ET
TigerFest is a sellout for third consecutive year
Fans excited to welcome Tigers players back to Detroit

DETROIT -- For the third consecutive year, TigerFest at Comerica Park has sold out. The 15th Annual TigerFest will be held at Comerica Park on Saturday, January 24, 2009 from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Tickets for the annual event, presented by StubHub!, went on sale Friday morning and sold out Monday. The tremendous fan response came as no surprise to Tigers outfielder Curtis Granderson. "Tigers fans are the best in baseball, whether it's July or January," said Granderson, who will join his teammates and coaches in signing autographs and taking photos with fans. "I enjoy TigerFest almost as much as the fans, because it essentially signals the beginning of the baseball season."

Although tickets for the event are sold out, there is still a chance for Tigers fans to join in the fun and welcome Tigers players back to Comerica Park. Fans who submit their favorite Tigers memory to www.tigers.com starting at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, December 19, will be eligible to win a family four pack of tickets to TigerFest. There are 10 family four packs available and winners will be notified on Monday, January 19, 2009.

Additional details, including players scheduled to appear at the event, will be announced in early January. For further details and the latest updates, please visit tigers.com/tigerfest.

12/18/2008 11:03 AM ET
Tigers agree to terms with Matt Treanor
Catcher agrees to one-year deal

DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a one-year contract with catcher Matt Treanor.

Treanor saw action in 65 games with the Florida Marlins in 2008, batting .238 (49-for-206) with seven doubles, two home runs and 23 RBI.

"Matt is a quality back-up catcher at the Major League level and a solid addition to our club," Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. "Addressing our catching situation was a priority for us this winter and we feel we have solidified that area by adding both Gerald Laird and Matt Treanor."

In five seasons at the Major League level with the Marlins (2004-08), Treanor has hit .237 (171-for-723) with 30 doubles, eight home runs and 70 RBI in 274 games.

01/12/2009 11:05 AM ET
Tigers invite 13 players to Major League camp

DETROIT - The Detroit Tigers today announced the following 13 players have been invited to major league camp this spring in Lakeland, FL:

Pitchers: Rudy Darrow, Casey Fien, Jon Kibler, Ryan Perry
Catchers: Alex Avila, Jeff Kunkel, Dane Sardinha, Max St. Pierre
Infielders: Cale Iorg, Don Kelly, Will Rhymes, Scott Sizemore
Outfielders: Alexis Gomez

Additionally, the following staff members will be in uniform at major league camp this spring: Glenn Adams, Kevin Bradshaw, Tom Brookens, Ray Burris, Manny Crespo, Leon "Bull" Durham, Glenn Ezell, Toby Harrah, Jon Matlack, Larry Parrish, Brian Peterson, Scott Pickens, Mike Rojas, Gene Roof and A.J. Sager. Both Willie Horton and Al Kaline will be in uniform this spring, while Lou Whitaker will return for the sixth straight year as a spring training instructor. Dustin Campbell, Matt Rankin and Chris McDonald will assist the major league training staff this spring, while Chris Walter will once again work with the Tigers strength and conditioning coordinator Javair Gillett.

Pitchers and catchers will report to Lakeland on February 13, with the first work-out on February 14. The balance of the squad will report on February 16 and the first full-squad work-out will be held on February 17.

01/13/2009 4:47 PM ET
2009 Detroit Tigers Winter Caravan, Presented by Verizon Wireless, Ready to Roll
Tigers Players and Coaches Slated to Visit Fans across the Region

• 2009 Tigers Winter Caravan

DETROIT - The 2009 Detroit Tigers Winter Caravan, presented by Verizon Wireless and FS Detroit, is set for Thursday, January 22 and Friday, January 23, with an exciting lineup of appearances around Michigan and into Ohio. Tigers' players, coaches and broadcasters will spend the two days aboard buses traveling across the region, spreading baseball fever to fans of all ages.

"We have targeted 30 caravan destinations in two days," said Tigers' Vice President of Community Affairs Elaine Lewis. "We're excited to continue our unique tradition of bringing Tigers' players and coaches into the communities and hometowns of our fans."

Media are encouraged to attend each stop on the caravan as there will be numerous photo and b-roll opportunities. Additionally, select stops will have specific media availabilities, which will allow for interviews with Tigers personnel.

01/13/2009 11:04 AM ET
Tigers agree to terms with Fu-Te Ni on minor league deal
Lefthanded Pitcher Receives Invitation to Major League Camp

The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a minor league deal with lefthanded pitcher Fu-Te Ni from Taiwan. Ni will be in major league camp with the Tigers this spring as a non-roster invitee.

Ni spent the past two seasons pitching for the China Trust Whales in the Chinese Professional Baseball League. In 2008, he finished 5-12 with a 3.34 ERA and 132 strikeouts in 145.1 innings pitched. Ni led the CPBL with 132 strikeouts in 2008. He finished 7-12 with a 3.53 ERA and 125 strikeouts in 122.1 innings pitched during the 2007 season. Ni finished third in the CPBL with 125 strikeouts that season, while he was eighth with his 3.53 ERA.

"Our personnel that have scouted Ni project him as a major league pitcher," Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. "The efforts by Al Avila (vice president/assistant general manager), Tom Moore (director, international operations), Kevin Hooker (pacific rim coordinator) and Allen Lin (Taiwan scout) have brought this well-scouted prospect to our organization. We are pleased to add Ni as we continue to expand our international scouting efforts."

He saw action with the Taiwan National Team at the 2007 Baseball World Cup, while he also pitched for Taiwan at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China. Ni is slated to pitch for Taiwan at the 2009 World Baseball Classic.

Ni is the second native of Taiwan signed by the Tigers organization, joining outfielder Chao-Ting Tang. Tang was signed by the Tigers on April 28, 2008 and he saw action with the Gulf Coast League Tigers this past season.

01/14/2009 4:10 PM ET
Tigers Agree to Terms On 2009 Contracts with Fernando Rodney and Marcus Thames

DETROIT - The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a contract for the 2009 season with righthanded pitcher Fernando Rodney and outfielder Marcus Thames, thus avoiding arbitration with both players.

Rodney registered a career-high 13 saves in 38 appearances for the Tigers in 2008 as he served as the club's closer over the season's final two months. He compiled a 4.91 ERA (40.1IP/22ER), while fanning 49 batters and limiting opponents to a .224 batting average (34x152). Rodney has compiled a 4.25 ERA (254.1IP/120ER) and 33 saves in 235 outings during his major league career, fanning 253 batters and holding opponents to a .239 batting average (230x964).

Thames hit .241 (76x316) with 12 doubles, 25 home runs and 56 RBI in 103 games for the Tigers in 2008. In five seasons with the Tigers, he is batting .243 (293x1295) with 61 doubles, 86 home runs and 219 RBI in 398 games. Thames is fourth among all American League players with a minimum of 1,000 plate appearances since the start of the 2006 season with a home run once every 13.52 at-bats (933AB/69HR).

01/14/2009 10:30 AM ET
Tigers hire Steve Pack as area scout

The Detroit Tigers today announced the organization has hired Steve Pack as an area scout for Southern California and Southern Nevada.

Prior to joining the Tigers, Pack served as a part-time scout with the New York Mets organization for two years (2006-07). Additionally, he pitched at the minor league level for the Mets for four seasons (1993-96) after being selected by the organization in the June 1992 draft.

01/15/2009 3:23 PM ET
Cabrera named 'King Tiger' 2008

Detroit Tigers first baseman Miguel Cabrera has won the 2008 King Tiger Award, given each year by the Mayo Smith Society.

Cabrera was the American League's home run leader in 2008 with 37, while he tied for the league lead with 331 total bases. He finished third in the league with 127 RBI, fifth with 75 extra-base hits and seventh with a .537 slugging percentage. Cabrera is the first Tigers player to lead the league in home runs since Cecil Fielder belted 44 home runs in 1991 to share the league lead.

Outfielder Curtis Granderson finished second and rookie righthanded pitcher Armando Galarraga finished third, in balloting conducted during the offseason by the Mayo Smith Society, the nationwide organization of Detroit Tigers fans. Outfielder Magglio Ordoñez and third baseman Brandon Inge also collected King Tiger votes.

The King Tiger award honors a player for both on-field and off-field achievements. The Mayo Smith Society will present the award to Cabrera during its annual spring training trip to Lakeland, Florida, scheduled this year for March 21-28.

Past King Tiger winners since the Mayo Smith Society re-established the award after a generation-long dormancy have been:

2007: Magglio Ordoñez
2006: Kenny Rogers
2005: Placido Polanco
2004: Carlos Guillen and Ivan Rodriguez (tie)

01/20/2009 4:46 PM ET
Tigers agree to terms on 2009 contracts with four players

DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a contract for the 2009 season with righthanded pitchers Edwin Jackson and Joel Zumaya, lefthanded pitcher Bobby Seay and catcher Gerald Laird, thus avoiding arbitration with all four players.

Jackson posted a 14-11 record and 4.42 ERA (183.1IP/90ER) in 32 outings (31 starts) with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2008. He established a career best with 14 wins for the Rays. Jackson was acquired by the Tigers in a two-player deal with the Rays on December 11, 2008.

Zumaya saw action in 21 games with the Tigers in 2008, posting a 0-2 record, 3.47 ERA (23.1IP/9ER) and 22 strikeouts. In three seasons with Detroit, he is 8-8 with a 2.76 ERA (140.1IP/43ER) and 146 strikeouts in 111 outings.

Seay finished 1-2 with a 4.47 ERA (56.1IP/28ER) in 60 appearances with the Tigers in 2008. He established career highs with 60 appearances, 56.1 innings pitched and 58 strikeouts last season. In three seasons with the Tigers, he is 4-2 with a 3.89 ERA (118.0IP/51ER) in 132 outings.

Laird hit .276 (95x344) with 24 doubles, six home runs and 41 RBI in 95 games with the Texas Rangers in 2008. He has thrown out 36.6 percent of runners attempting to steal (96x262) since the start of the 2003 season, second-best among all American League catchers during the stretch. Laird was acquired by the Tigers in a three-player deal with the Rangers on December 8, 2008.

01/20/2009 1:10 PM ET
Tigers announce tryout camp in Lakeland

The Detroit Tigers today announced a tryout camp to be held at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, FL on Monday, March 9, 2009.

Registration for the camp begins at 9:00 a.m., with the workout beginning at 10:00 a.m. The tryout camp is for players age 18 and older and no pre-registration or participation fee is necessary. Those interested in trying out must provide their own glove and workout equipment. Wood bats, helmets and baseballs will be provided by the Tigers.

01/20/2009 11:05 AM ET
Tigers agree to terms with Juan Rincon on Minor League deal
Righthanded pitcher receives invitation to Major League camp

DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a minor league contract with righthanded pitcher Juan Rincon. Rincon will be in major league camp with the Tigers this spring as a non-roster invitee.

Rincon saw action with both the Minnesota Twins and Cleveland Indians during the 2008 season, compiling a 3-3 record and 5.86 ERA (55.1IP/36ER) in 47 appearances between the two clubs.

In eight seasons at the major league level with the Twins (2001-08) and Indians (2008), Rincon has posted a 31-27 record, 3.80 ERA (468.1IP/198ER) and 431 strikeouts in 409 outings (three starts). He is fourth among all American League pitchers with 395 appearances since the start of the 2003 season, while he is second among all league relievers with 31 wins and fourth with 434.0 innings pitched during the stretch.

Rincon was among the players selected to the Venezuelan provisional roster for the 2009 World Baseball Classic announced yesterday.

01/21/2009 3:16 PM ET
Tigers Winter Caravan set to hit the road tomorrow
2009 Winter Caravan is presented by Verizon Wireless

DETROIT - The 2009 Detroit Tigers Winter Caravan, presented by Verizon Wireless and FS Detroit, is set for this Thursday and Friday, with an exciting lineup of appearances throughout Michigan. Tigers' players, coaches and broadcasters will spend the two days aboard buses traveling across the region, spreading baseball fever to fans of all ages.

METRO BUS

Thursday, January 22

1:20-2:15 p.m. - DMC Children's Hospital of Michigan (Detroit, MI)
Hospital Visit
Cabrera, Everett, Figaro, Granderson, Guillen, Hessman, Jackson, Miner, Ordonez, Porcello, Raburn, Robertson, Ryan, Santiago, Simons, Thames, Thomas, Verlander

2:35-3:35 p.m. - Pepsi Bottling Plant (Detroit, MI)
Tour and Meet and greet with Pepsi bottling plant staff
Leyland, Lamont, Cabrera, Everett, Figaro, Guillen, Ordonez, Porcello, Raburn, Ryan, Santiago, Simons, Thomas, Verlander

2:35-3:35 p.m. - Fire Academy Training Center (Detroit, MI)
Interactive fire training and visit with academy firefighters
Knapp, McClendon, Impemba, Granderson, Hessman, Jackson, Miner, Robertson, Thames

4:00-4:15 p.m. - American Red Cross, Southeast Michigan (Detroit, MI)
Pepsi Product Donation
Leyland, Lamont, McClendon, Cabrera, Everett, Figaro, Guillen, Jackson, Ordonez, Raburn, Ryan, Santiago, Simons, Thomas

6:00-6:30 p.m. - Borders Bookstore (Novi, MI)
Children's book reading (Open to Public)
Miner, Robertson

5:00-7:00 p.m. - Performing Arts Center (Brighton, MI)
Brighton Community Rally (Open to Public)
Lamont, Leyland, McClendon, Impemba, Cabrera, Everett, Figaro, Granderson, Guillen, Hessman, Jackson , Miner, Ordonez, Raburn, Ryan, Santiago, Simons, Thames, Thomas

Friday, January 23

10:00-10:45 a.m. - Heilmann Middle School (Detroit, MI)
Play Baseball Detroit rally
Granderson

10:20-11:05 a.m. - Engine 23 Firehouse (Detroit, MI) Firehouse visit and jersey presentation
Leyland, Knapp, Lamont, McClendon, Allen, Impemba, Everett, Figaro, Guillen, Hessman, Jackson, Miner, Porcello, Raburn, Robertson, Ryan, Santiago, Simons, Thames, Thomas, Verlander

11:20-11:50 a.m. - Motown Historical Museum (Detroit, MI)
Motown 50th Anniversary presentation and tour
Leyland, Knapp, Lamont, McClendon, Allen, Everett, Figaro, Granderson, Guillen, Hessman, Porcello, Ryan, Santiago, Simons, Thames, Verlander

11:20-11:50 a.m. - Department of Veteran's Affairs Detroit Medical Center (Detroit, MI)
Meet and greet with veterans
Impemba, Jackson, Raburn, Robertson, Thomas

12:30-1:20 p.m. - DTE Energy (Detroit, MI)
DTE employee rally
Leyland, Knapp, Lamont, McClendon, Cabrera, Everett, Figaro, Granderson, Guillen, Hessman, Jackson, Miner, Ordonez, Porcello, Raburn, Robertson, Ryan, Santiago, Simons, Thames, Thomas, Verlander

1:00-2:00 p.m. - Millet Learning Center (Saginaw, MI)
Tri-Valley Miracle League Check Presentation
Miner

1:15-2:35 p.m. - The Henry Ford (Dearborn, MI)
Dearborn Community Rally (Open to Public)
Leyland, Knapp, Lamont, McClendon Allen, Impemba, Cabrera, Everett, Figaro, Granderson, Guillen, Hessman, Jackson, Ordonez, Porcello, Raburn, Robertson, Ryan, Santiago, Simons, Thames, Thomas, Verlander

3:00-4:30 p.m. - North American International Auto Show
COBO Hall (Detroit, MI)
Meet and greet and public program (Open to Public)
Leyland, Knapp, Lamont, McClendon, Allen, Impemba, Cabrera, Everett, Figaro, Granderson, Guillen, Hessman, Jackson, Ordonez, Porcello, Raburn, Robertson, Ryan, Santiago, Simons, Thames, Thomas, Verlander

WEST BUS

Thursday, January 22

1:00-3:00 p.m. - University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI)
University of Michigan School of Kinesiology business sports forum
Dombrowski, Dickerson, Jones, Laird, Larish, Wells

2:00-3:00 p.m. - C.S. Mott Children's Hospital (Ann Arbor, MI)
Hospital visit
Bloom, Bonine, Hollimon, Inge, Lambert, Ramirez, Rodney, Seay

4:45-7:00 p.m. - Western Michigan University (Kalamazoo, MI)
Western Michigan University Community Rally (Open to Public)
Avila, Belliard, Jones, Van Slyke, Dickerson, Bloom, Bonine, Clevlen, Galarraga, Hollimon, Inge, Lambert, Laird, Larish, Ramirez, Rodney, Seay, Treanor, Wells

Friday, January 23

10:30 a.m.-noon - Albion College (Albion, MI)
Albion College Community Rally (Open to Public)
Avila, Belliard, Jones, Van Slyke, Dickerson, Bloom, Bonine, Clevlen, Galarraga, Hollimon, Inge, Lambert, Laird, Larish, Ramirez, Rodney, Seay, Treanor, Wells

12:15-12:30 p.m. - Albion College (Albion, MI)
Meet and greet with Albion College baseball and softball teams
Avila, Belliard, Jones, Van Slyke, Dickerson, Bloom, Bonine, Clevlen, Galarraga, Hollimon, Inge, Lambert, Laird, Larish, Ramirez, Rodney, Seay, Treanor, Wells

2:00-2:15 p.m. - Spring Arbor University (Spring Arbor, MI)
Meet and greet with Special Olympics athletes
Avila, Belliard, Jones, Van Slyke, Dickerson, Bloom, Bonine, Clevlen, Galarraga, Hollimon, Inge, Lambert, Laird, Larish, Ramirez, Rodney, Seay, Treanor, Wells

1:30-3:00 p.m. - Spring Arbor University (Spring Arbor, MI)
Special Olympics and Spring Arbor University event (Open to Public)
Avila, Belliard, Jones, Van Slyke, Dickerson, Bloom, Bonine, Clevlen, Galarraga, Hollimon, Inge, Lambert, Laird, Larish, Ramirez, Rodney, Seay, Treanor, Wells

01/24/2009 12:40 PM ET
Tigers agree to terms on one-year deal with Brandon Lyon
Scott Williamson signed to Minor League deal, invited to Major League camp

DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a one-year contract with righthanded pitcher Brandon Lyon. Additionally, the Tigers designated the contract of righthanded pitcher Eddie Bonine for assignment and agreed to terms on a minor league contract with righthanded pitcher Scott Williamson. Williamson received an invitation to major league camp.

Lyon saw action in 61 games with the Arizona Diamondbacks during the 2008 season, posting a 3-5 record, 4.70 ERA (59.1IP/31ER) and 26 saves. He fanned 44 batters for the Diamondbacks last season, while issuing only 13 walks.

"Brandon Lyon is a proven reliever at the major league level," Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. "Brandon will compete for the closer's role this spring and we expect him to play a significant role on our pitching staff in the late innings."

In seven seasons at the major league level with the Toronto Blue Jays (2001-02), Boston Red Sox (2003) and Diamondbacks (2005-08), he has compiled a 21-29 record, 4.46 ERA (416.0IP/206ER) and 51 saves in 309 appearances. Since the start of the 2005 season, Lyon was 12th among all National League relievers with 2.60 walks per nine innings. Lyon saw action in five games during the post-season with the Diamondbacks in 2007, fanning five batters in six scoreless innings of relief.

Williamson saw action in 15 games with Triple A Richmond and in three games with Triple A Tacoma during the 2008 season. In nine seasons at the major league level with the Cincinnati Reds (1999-2003), Boston Red Sox (2003-04), Chicago Cubs (2005-06), San Diego Padres (2006) and Baltimore Orioles (2007), he is 28-28 with a 3.36 ERA (439.1IP/164ER), 55 saves and 510 strikeouts.

Bonine finished 2-1 with a 5.40 ERA (26.2IP/16ER) in five starts with the Tigers in 2008. He posted a 12-4 record and 4.15 ERA (106.1IP/49ER) in 17 starts with Triple A Toledo last season, while he took the loss in his only start with Double A Erie after allowing two runs (one earned) in 3.2 innings pitched.

01/26/2009 12:37 PM ET
Tigers agree to terms with Timo Perez on Minor League deal
Club agrees to terms with seven players on 2009 contracts

DETROIT - The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a minor league contract with outfielder Timo Perez. Perez will be in major league camp with the Tigers this spring as a non-roster invitee.

Perez spent the entire 2008 season with Triple A Toledo, batting .302 (129x427) with 30 doubles, two triples, 13 home runs and 63 RBI in 112 games. He tied for ninth in the International League with a .302 batting average. Perez played for Licey in the Dominican Winter League this off-season, hitting .319 (53x166) with seven doubles, six home runs and 29 RBI in 48 games.

Additionally, the Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on 2009 contracts with the following seven players: righthanded pitchers Kyle Bloom, Alfredo Figaro, Chris Lambert and Zach Simons, catcher Dusty Ryan, infielder Michael Hollimon and outfielder Casper Wells.

With today's signings, the Tigers currently have 29 players on the club's 40-man roster under contract for the 2009 season.

02/03/2009 3:42 PM ET
Tigers agree to terms with Justin Verlander

DETROIT - The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a contract for the 2009 season with righthanded pitcher Justin Verlander, thus avoiding arbitration with him.

Verlander finished 11-17 with a 4.84 ERA (201.0IP/108ER) and 163 strikeouts in 33 starts for the Tigers in 2008. He tied for fifth in the American League with a career-high 33 starts.

In 97 starts during his major league career with the Tigers, Verlander is 46-34 with a 4.11 ERA (600.0IP/274ER) and 477 strikeouts.

Verlander was tabbed the American League Rookie of the Year in 2006, while he was selected to the American League's all-star squad in 2007.

02/09/2009 10:30 AM ET
Tigers, Fox Sports Detroit Announce 2009 TV Schedule
All 162 Games Televised Including a Record 156 on FOX Sports Detroit; Six Tigers Appearances on FOX Saturday Baseball Game of the Week; Four Spring Training Telecasts Slated for FOX Sports Detroit

All 162 games on the Detroit Tigers 2009 schedule will be televised - 156 by FOX Sports Detroit and six on the FOX Saturday Baseball Game of the Week.

FOX Sports Detroit: 156 regular-season games, the most ever in the network's 12 years of Tigers coverage, the majority to be available in high-definition on FOX Sports Detroit HD (the HD schedule to be announced at a later date). For the third consecutive season, some games will be shifted to auxiliary service FOX Sports Detroit Plus when Tigers games coincide with Pistons or Red Wings games airing on the primary channel.

Also scheduled are four spring training game telecasts on FOX Sports Detroit (March 16, 19, 22, 29).
FOX Sports Detroit telecasts continue to feature the popular and Emmy-winning announcing tandem of play-by-play voice Mario Impemba (8th season) and analyst Rod Allen (7th season).

FOX Sports Detroit continues its extensive and exclusive pre- and post-game coverage on TIGERS LIVE, the long-running in-season magazine show TIGERS WEEKLY, as well as a season preview special.

Tigers games on FOX Sports Detroit are a hit with viewers as evidenced last season when the network was the most watched primetime television outlet in Metro Detroit from March 31-July 31. A 12-time Emmy winner for its Tigers coverage, FOX Sports Detroit has steadily increased the number of telecasts throughout its partnership with the team - starting with 85 games in 1998, growing to 100 games from 1999- 2004, 110 in 2005, 112 during the team's American League championship season in 2006, 132 telecasts in 2007 and 150 games in 2008.

"FOX Sports Detroit is thrilled to offer this schedule to Tigers fans throughout Michigan. With every game televised, every market served, a large volume of HD games and the best production team in the business, Tigers fans everywhere will be in baseball heaven," said Greg Hammaren, Senior VP/General Manager, FOX Sports Detroit. "The Tigers are putting a great team on the field and FOX Sports Detroit will be there for fans that can't make it out to Comerica Park. We can't wait for that first pitch."

"FOX Sports Detroit continues to provide our fans with an entertaining telecast, giving tremendous insight to the ballclub during each and every game," said Tigers President, CEO and General Manager David Dombrowski. "As an organization, we strive to offer Tigers fans the best entertainment value both at Comerica Park, and through our partners. FOX Sports Detroit is simply the best in their coverage of Tigers baseball."

FOX Sports Detroit's coverage of the Tigers goes to 3.2 million cable and satellite households throughout Michigan and portions of Northwest Ohio and Northern Indiana.

FOX Saturday Baseball Game of the Week: Six games (May 2, June 20, July 4, July 25, Aug. 20 and Sept. 19) are tabbed for regional coverage airing on WJBK-FOX 2 in Detroit and other FOX network affiliates throughout Tigers territory.
Spring Training:

Mon. March 16 vs. St. Louis, 1:00 PM (replay 7:00 PM); Thu. March 19 vs. Atlanta, 7:00 PM; Sun. March 22 vs. Florida, 1:00 PM; Sun. March 29 vs. Atlanta, 1:00 PM

APRIL

Mon. 6 at Toronto 7:15 FSD
Tue. 7 at Toronto 7:00 FSD
Wed. 8 at Toronto 7:00 FSD PLUS
Thu. 9 at Toronto 12:30 FSD
Fri. 10 TEXAS 1:00 FSD
Sat. 11 TEXAS 1:00 FSD PLUS
Sun. 12 TEXAS 1:00 FSD
Mon. 13 CHI. WHITE SOX 1:00 FSD
Tue. 14 CHI. WHITE SOX 1:00 FSD
Wed. 15 CHI. WHITE SOX 1:00 FSD
Fri. 17 at Seattle 10:00 FSD
Sat. 18 at Seattle 9:00 FSD
Sun. 19 at Seattle 4:00 FSD
Tue. 21 at L.A. Angels 10:00 FSD
Wed. 22 at L.A. Angels 10:00 FSD
Thu. 23 at L.A. Angels 10:00 FSD
Fri. 24 at Kansas City 8:00 FSD
Sat. 25 at Kansas City 7:00 FSD
Sun. 26 at Kansas City 2:00 FSD
Mon. 27 N.Y. YANKEES 7:00 FSD
Tue. 28 N.Y. YANKEES 7:00 FSD
Wed. 29 N.Y. YANKEES 7:00 FSD

MAY

Fri. 1 CLEVELAND 7:00 FSD
Sat. 2 CLEVELAND 3:30 FOX
Sun. 3 CLEVELAND 1:00 FSD
Mon. 4 MINNESOTA 7:00 FSD
Tue. 5 MINNESOTA 7:00 FSD
Wed. 6 at Chi. White Sox 8:00 FSD
Thu. 7 at Chi. White Sox 8:00 FSD
Fri. 8 at Cleveland 7:00 FSD
Sat. 9 at Cleveland 7:00 FSD
Sun. 10 at Cleveland 1:00 FSD
Tue. 12 at Minnesota 8:00 FSD
Wed. 13 at Minnesota 8:00 FSD
Thu. 14 at Minnesota 1:00 FSD
Fri. 15 OAKLAND 7:00 FSD
Sat. 16 OAKLAND 7:00 FSD
Sun. 17 OAKLAND 1:00 FSD
Tue. 19 TEXAS 7:00 FSD
Wed. 20 TEXAS 7:00 FSD
Thu. 21 TEXAS 1:00 FSD
Fri. 22 COLORADO 7:00 FSD
Sat. 23 COLORADO 7:00 FSD
Sun. 24 COLORADO 1:00 FSD
Mon. 25 at Kansas City 2:00 FSD
Tue. 26 at Kansas City 8:00 FSD
Wed. 27 at Kansas City 2:00 FSD
Thu. 28 at Baltimore 7:00 FSD
Fri. 29 at Baltimore 7:00 FSD
Sat. 30 at Baltimore 7:00 FSD
Sun. 31 at Baltimore 1:30 FSD

JUNE

Tue. 2 BOSTON 7:00 FSD
Wed. 3 BOSTON 7:00 FSD
Thu. 4 BOSTON 1:00 FSD
Fri. 5 L.A. ANGELS 7:00 FSD
Sat. 6 L.A. ANGELS 7:00 FSD
Sun. 7 L.A. ANGELS 1:00 FSD
Mon. 8 at Chi. White Sox 8:00 FSD
Tue. 9 at Chi. White Sox 8:00 FSD
Wed. 10 at Chi. White Sox 8:00 FSD
Thu. 11 at Chi. White So 2:00 FSD
Fri. 12 at Pittsburgh 7:00 FSD
Sat. 13 at Pittsburgh 7:00 FSD
Sun. 14 at Pittsburgh 1:30 FSD
Tue. 16 at St. Louis 8:15 FSD
Wed. 17 at St. Louis 8:15 FSD
Thu. 18 at St. Louis 8:15 FSD
Fri. 19 MILWAUKEE 7:00 FSD
Sat. 20 MILWAUKEE 4:00 FOX
Sun. 21 MILWAUKEE 1:00 FSD
Tue. 23 CHICAGO CUBS 7:00 FSD
Wed. 24 CHICAGO CUBS 7:00 FSD
Thu. 25 CHICAGO CUBS 1:00 FSD
Fri. 26 at Houston 8:00 FSD
Sat. 27 at Houston 7:00 FSD
Sun. 28 at Houston 2:00 FSD
Mon. 29 at Oakland 10:00 FSD
Tue. 30 at Oakland 10:00 FSD

JULY

Wed. 1 at Oakland 3:30 FSD
Fri. 3 at Minnesota 8:00 FSD
Sat. 4 at Minnesota 4:00 FOX
Sun. 5 at Minnesota 2:00 FSD
Mon. 6 KANSAS CITY 7:00 FSD
Tue. 7 KANSAS CITY 7:00 FSD
Wed. 8 KANSAS CITY 7:00 FSD
Fri. 10 CLEVELAND 7:00 FSD
Sat. 11 CLEVELAND 7:00 FSD
Sun. 12 CLEVELAND 1:00 FSD
ALL-STAR BREAK JULY 13-16
Fri. 17 at N.Y. Yankees 7:00 FSD
Sat. 18 at N.Y. Yankees TBD FSD
Sun. 19 at N.Y. Yankees 1:00 FSD
Tue. 21 SEATTLE 7:00 FSD
Wed. 22 SEATTLE 7:00 FSD
Thu. 23 SEATTLE 1:00 FSD
Fri. 24 CHI. WHITE SOX 7:00 FSD
Sat. 25 CHI. WHITE SOX 4:00 FOX
Sun. 26 CHI. WHITE SOX 1:00 FSD
Mon. 27 at Texas 8:00 FSD
Tue. 28 at Texas 8:00 FSD
Wed. 29 at Texas 8:00 FSD
Fri. 31 at Cleveland 7:00 FSD

AUGUST

Sat. 1 at Cleveland 7:00 FSD
Sun. 2 at Cleveland 1:00 FSD
Mon. 3 BALTIMORE 7:00 FSD
Tue. 4 BALTIMORE 7:00 FSD
Wed. 5 BALTIMORE 7:00 FSD
Thu. 6 BALTIMORE 1:00 FSD
Fri. 7 MINNESOTA 7:00 FSD
Sat. 8 MINNESOTA 7:00 FSD
Sun. 9 MINNESOTA 1:00 FSD
Mon. 10 at Boston 7:00 FSD
Tue. 11 at Boston 7:00 FSD
Wed. 12 at Boston 7:00 FSD
Thu. 13 at Boston 1:30 FSD
Fri. 14 KANSAS CITY 7:00 FSD
Sat. 15 KANSAS CITY 7:00 FSD
Sun. 16 KANSAS CITY 1:00 FSD
Tue. 18 SEATTLE 7:00 FSD
Wed. 19 SEATTLE 7:00 FSD
Thu. 20 SEATTLE 1:00 FSD
Fri. 21 at Oakland 10:00 FSD
Sat. 22 at Oakland 9:00 FSD
Sun. 23 at Oakland 4:00 FSD
Mon. 24 at L.A. Angels 10:00 FSD
Tue. 25 at L.A. Angels 10:00 FSD
Wed. 26 at L.A. Angels 3:30 FSD
Fri. 28 TAMPA BAY 7:00 FSD
Sat. 29 TAMPA BAY 4:00 FOX
Sun. 30 TAMPA BAY 1:00 FSD
Mon. 31 TAMPA BAY 1:00 FSD

SEPTEMBER

Tue. 1 CLEVELAND 7:00 FSD
Wed. 2 CLEVELAND 7:00 FSD
Thu. 3 CLEVELAND 1:00 FSD
Fri. 4 at Tampa Bay 7:30 FSD
Sat. 5 at Tampa Bay 7:00 FSD
Sun. 6 at Tampa Bay 1:30 FSD
Tue. 8 at Kansas City 8:00 FSD
Wed. 9 at Kansas City 8:00 FSD
Thu. 10 at Kansas City 2:00 FSD
Fri. 11 TORONTO 7:00 FSD
Sat. 12 TORONTO 7:00 FSD
Sun. 13 TORONTO 1:00 FSD
Mon. 14 TORONTO 7:00 FSD
Tue. 15 KANSAS CITY 7:00 FSD
Wed. 16 KANSAS CITY 7:00 FSD
Thu. 17 KANSAS CITY 1:00 FSD
Fri. 18 at Minnesota 8:00 FSD
Sat. 19 at Minnesota 4:00 FOX
Sun. 20 at Minnesota 2:00 FSD
Tue. 22 at Cleveland 7:00 FSD
Wed. 23 at Cleveland 7:00 FSD
Thu. 24 at Cleveland 7:00 FSD
Fri. 25 at Chi. White Sox 8:00 FSD
Sat. 26 at Chi. White Sox 7:00 FSD
Sun. 27 at Chi. White Sox 2:00 FSD
Mon. 28 MINNESOTA 7:00 FSD
Tue. 29 MINNESOTA 7:00 FSD
Wed. 30 MINNESOTA 7:00 FSD

OCTOBER

Thu. 1 MINNESOTA 1:00 FSD
Fri. 2 CHI. WHITE SOX 7:00 FSD
Sat. 3 CHI. WHITE SOX 7:00 FSD
Sun. 4 CHI. WHITE SOX 1:00 FSD

FSD = FOX Sports Detroit
(HD) = Game also on FOX Sports Detroit HD - SCHEDULE TBD (channel numbers at foxsports.com/detroit)
FSD PLUS = FOX Sports Detroit Plus (channel numbers at foxsports.com/detroit)
FOX Saturday Baseball Game of the Week (available on WJBK FOX 2 in Detroit and regional FOX stations)

All dates/times/telecasters subject to change. All times Eastern.