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Chris Ilitch gets shoutout from A.J. Hinch for investment that helped Tigers work in rain
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- Chris Ilitch gets shoutout from A.J. Hinch for investment that helped Tigers work in rain
The Detroit Tigers had their first rain cancelation for a spring training game in Lakeland since 2016 on Monday. But that didn't stop them from getting in a full days work.
The Tigers were originally scheduled to play the Toronto Blue Jays at 1:05 p.m. on Monday, but the game was called early in the morning because of inclement weather in the forecast.
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In the old days, that might've meant one less day of preparation before the season. Or at least a very wet day of work.
Detroit Tigers owner Chris Ilitch watches workout during spring training at Joker Marchant Stadiumin Lakeland, Fla. on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025.
However, the Tigers still practiced Monday morning, completing their workouts thanks to the new roofs over the half-field and bullpen mounds that keep the players from getting wet from the rain (or too hot from the sun).
"I'm a big fan of the investment they're making in the players," Tigers ace Tarik Skubal said shortly after pitchers and catchers arrived in Lakeland. "That's what it really is and boils down to. I'm a big fan of it."
WHAT'S GETTING SHUFFLED: Detroit Tigers vs Blue Jays spring training game canceled for rain. Here's what changes
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For the extra day of work, Hinch thanked owner Christopher Ilitch for his investment in the TigerTown facility.
"Hat tip to C.I.," Hinch said. "We can get our full work day in."
In the past three years, the Tigers have spent nearly $200 million for infrastructure upgrades for players and fans in Lakeland and Detroit.
That investment paid off in part on Monday as the Tigers were able to go about their business despite a rainy day in the Sunshine State.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Tigers' Chris Ilitch gets shoutout from A.J. Hinch for key investment
