The Detroit Tigers, based in Detroit, Michigan, are a distinguished professional baseball team and one of the oldest franchises in Major League Baseball (MLB), established in 1894. They compete within the American League (AL) Central Division and have hosted their home games at Comerica Park since 2000.
As one of the eight charter franchises of the AL, the Tigers originated as a member of the minor league Western League during their founding year and remain unique as the only Western League team that continues to play in its original city. Additionally, the Detroit Tigers hold the distinction of being the oldest franchise in AL history with a continuous name and location. Since becoming a major league franchise in 1901, the Tigers have achieved significant success by winning four World Series championships, in 1935, 1945, 1968, and 1984. The team's colors are navy blue, orange, and white, notably featuring an esteemed mascot named Paws. As of 2024, A.J. Hinch is serving as the team's manager.
Who owns the Detroit Tigers?
Ilitch Holdings, Inc. is an American holding company that includes ownership of the Detroit Tigers, a team in Major League Baseball. Established in 1999, Ilitch Holdings was created to support the various enterprises owned by Mike and Marian Ilitch. Christopher Ilitch currently serves as the CEO and President of Ilitch Holdings, a holding company founded by his parents, Mike and Marian Ilitch.
In 1992, Mike Ilitch acquired the Detroit Tigers from Tom Monaghan, renowned for founding Domino's Pizza. Under Ilitch Holdings, Christopher Ilitch holds prominent positions as Chairman and CEO of the Detroit Tigers and Governor, President, and CEO of the Detroit Red Wings.
Christopher Ilitch’s role as the principal owner of the Detroit Tigers?
Christopher Ilitch serves as the Chairman and CEO of the Detroit Tigers. As president and CEO, he provides strategic leadership and oversight for Ilitch Holdings, including the Detroit Tigers and various other enterprises owned by the company.
Following his father's (Mike Ilitch) acquisition of the team, Christopher expressed a commitment to transferring the struggling franchise through a relocation to a new stadium. This vision was realized in 2000 when the team transitioned from Tiger Stadium to Comerica Park.
Detroit Tigers Valuation
As per Forbes in March 2024, the Detroit Tigers' valuation is $1.45 billion.
List of Detroit Tigers owners
Here is the list of all owners of the Detroit Tigers throughout its history:
| Name | Years |
| George Vanderbeck | 1894–1900 |
| James D. Burns | 1901 |
| Samuel F. Angus | 1902–1903 |
| William H. Yawkey | 1904–1907 |
| Frank Navin | 1908–1935 |
| Walter Briggs, Sr. | 1935–1952 |
| Walter Briggs, Jr. | 1952–1956 |
| Fred Knorr | 1956–1960 |
| John Fetzer | 1956–1983 |
| Tom Monaghan | 1983–1992 |
| Mike Ilitch | 1992–2017 |
| Christopher Ilitch | 2017–present |
FAQs on Detroit Tigers Owner
A. The Detroit Tigers were founded in 1894.
A. They play in the American League (AL) Central Division.
A. The Tigers have won 4 World Series titles (1935, 1945, 1968, 1984).
A. Their mascot is Paws, a tiger.
A. A.J. Hinch is the team's current manager (as of 2024).
