UPDATE: Tigers coach controversial on MLB legend
Tigers, Bally Sports Detroit Issue Statement on Craig Monroe’s Absence
Craig Monroe, the lead analyst for Detroit Tigers broadcasts on Bally Sports Detroit, has been absent from the air since June 9 due to a personal issue. This was confirmed by a joint statement from the Tigers and Bally Sports Detroit on Friday. The statement offered limited details and advised that any additional questions should be directed to Monroe himself.
The statement read, “Craig Monroe is addressing a personal matter and is not on the broadcast schedule. Any further questions should be directed to Craig.”
The Tigers and Bally Sports have issued a statement regarding Craig Monroe, who has not been on the air recently pic.twitter.com/0GzSxt09Z5
— Cody Stavenhagen (@CodyStavenhagen) June 21, 2024
Temporary Replacement and Speculation
During Craig Monroe’s absence, Dan Petry has taken over as the analyst for the Tigers’ broadcasts. Petry covered all six games of the recent road trip alongside play-by-play announcer Jason Benetti. Monroe’s absence, coupled with the lack of detailed information, has led fans and observers to speculate about the reasons behind it.
According to the Detroit Free Press, Monroe is not scheduled for any upcoming games, making his return date uncertain. Since his last appearance, Monroe has missed 10 games, including the series opener against the Chicago White Sox on Friday.
Craig Monroe’s Broadcasting Career and Current Team Dynamics
Craig Monroe, a former Tigers outfielder from 2002-07, transitioned to broadcasting in 2012 as a studio analyst and was promoted to lead analyst in 2023. Despite the Tigers’ broadcast team ranking last in Awful Announcing’s 2023 MLB local broadcaster rankings, the addition of Jason Benetti as the play-by-play announcer this season has positively impacted the broadcast experience.
In Monroe’s absence, other analysts such as Carlos Peña, Kirk Gibson, and Todd Jones have also taken turns in the booth. Monroe was scheduled to cover approximately 80 games this season, but it remains unclear when he will be able to resume his duties.
Privacy and Future Updates
While specific details about Craig Monroe’s personal matter remain undisclosed, the Tigers and Bally Sports Detroit have respected his privacy. The statement highlights Monroe’s need for privacy and indicates that any updates on his return will be managed with caution and empathy. Fans and the broadcasting community continue to hope for Monroe’s return to the booth.