“The Detroit Tigers are one of the most storied franchises in the history of America’s pastime,” said Detroit Tigers owner Christopher Ilitch. “Tradition. History. Championships. Generations of fans have supported this baseball team with pride and passion — as countless all-time Tiger greats have taken the field. What a thrill it was to watch Lou Whitaker grace the diamond for nearly two decades — a gifted talent in this glorious game. Without question, ‘Sweet Lou’ is one of the greatest players to ever wear the Olde English ‘D.’ His hustle. His grit. His dedication. On behalf of Tigers fans everywhere, it was a tremendous honor to call Lou a short time ago to inform him that the Tigers are retiring his iconic #1 at Comerica Park during the 2020 season — where his name and number will occupy hallowed space alongside his longtime partner up the middle — Alan Trammell. We congratulate Lou; a Tiger legend so deserving of this recognition.”
“There aren’t a whole lot of words that could describe how I’m feeling right now – but surreal might be the closest one,” Whitaker said in a statement. “It was the honor of my life to wear the Olde English ‘D’ for all 19 years of my career, and share the diamond with so many talented ballplayers along the way. I’d like to thank Tigers ownership and front-office leadership for bestowing this honor on me, and I’m already looking forward to celebrating with all the great Tigers fans at Comerica Park next August!”
Whitaker played for the Detroit Tigers from 1977–1995.
To learn more about the ceremony and purchase tickets, visit Tigers.com/Lou.