The Detroit Tigers opened their annual Black in Baseball Weekend, hosting the Black Diamond Dinner, an event celebrating the rich history of Black baseball while highlighting efforts to support future generations of players.
Held at MotorCity Casino Hotel’s Amnesia on Thursday (June 18), the dinner brought together former Negro Leagues players, community leaders, Tigers alumni, and baseball advocates.
The gathering recognized the impact of African Americans on the sport in Detroit and beyond.
A centerpiece of the evening was the presentation of the Willie Horton African American Legacy Award to Pete Hill, a Negro Leagues pioneer and one of the game’s earliest Black stars.
The award, established in 2009, honors individuals who have strengthened baseball’s legacy in Detroit and contributed to opportunities for African Americans in the sport.
It is named after Tigers legend and 1968 World Series champion Willie Horton.
The dinner served as the kickoff to a four-day celebration combining recognition of baseball history with opportunities for young athletes.
“This weekend is about legacy, mentorship, and opening doors for the next generation,” Tigers officials said in announcing the event.
Weekend events span four days
The festivities continue Friday at Comerica Park, where the Tigers host the Chicago White Sox.
A postgame concert featuring rapper Nelly follows as part of the club’s Sounds of Summer series.
It's getting hot out herre ☀️ 😎
— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) June 5, 2026
Summer is heatin' up in time for the Sounds of Summer Postgame Concert Series, presented by @RocketOTD!
Get tickets and field passes for Nelly on June 19: https://t.co/iED1FWC99P pic.twitter.com/tJuI0cpGPG
On Saturday, The Corner Ballpark will host the Black in Baseball HBCU Showcase, featuring athletes from historically Black colleges and universities, as well as from minority baseball programs.
Participants will take part in skill development, instruction, and exposure opportunities designed to increase accessibility to the sport while connecting players with coaches, scouts, and community partners.
Organizations participating in the showcase include the Players Alliance Partnership and Level Up Lab Programming & Activation.
Passing of the Bat caps the weekend
The weekend concludes Sunday with the Tigers’ annual Passing of the Bat Ceremony at Comerica Park.
The tradition symbolizes mentorship and the continued growth of future generations in baseball.
This year’s recipient is Jamir Campbell, a shortstop at Detroit Edison Public School Academy who has committed to play collegiately at Southern University.
The Black in Baseball Weekend has become a signature event for the Tigers, blending recognition of Detroit’s baseball heritage with efforts to expand opportunities and representation throughout the sport.