Detroit Tigers’ Playoff Berth Inspires City and Red Wings

DETROIT — Derek Lalonde, the head coach of the Detroit Red Wings, reminisces about growing up as a Montreal Expos fan in Brasher Falls, New York. However, since the Expos’ transformation into the Washington Nationals in 2004, Lalonde’s allegiance has naturally shifted to supporting his local Major League Baseball team — now the Detroit Tigers. “It’s amazing,” Lalonde expressed after the Tigers clinched an American League Wild Card spot. “It’s pretty neat that it’s the Tigers and Detroit, but certainly a lesson on believability watching that group.”

The Tigers secured their playoff berth with a decisive 4-1 victory over the Chicago White Sox at Comerica Park, ending a decade-long postseason absence. Lalonde noted the significance of both the Tigers and Red Wings being under Ilitch ownership, emphasizing the shared “internal growth, beliefs and approach.” He added, “What a resource to be owned by the same group under the same umbrella and able to lean on those guys.”

The Tigers’ playoff berth marks one of the most exciting storylines of the 2024 MLB season. On social media, the Red Wings tweeted their support, captioning one post with, “Whole city behind you! Let’s go!”

Andrew Copp, another native of Michigan, expressed his long-standing enthusiasm for the Tigers. “Back when I played baseball, I probably paid attention a little bit more,” Copp remarked. He recalled attending a playoff game against the Yankees at Comerica Park as a memorable experience. In the Red Wings’ locker room, support for the Tigers’ playoff push runs deep, according to Copp.

Ben Chiarot addressed the vibrant sports culture in Detroit, “You saw that last year with the Lions and our run toward a playoff spot. It’s a great sports city, especially when a team is having some success. It’s a fun place to be as an athlete.”

The upcoming Wild Card Series sees the Tigers matched against the Houston Astros. The series will commence with Game 1 at Houston’s Minute Maid Park on Tuesday afternoon.