KALAMAZOO – There was a buzz around Homer Stryker Field as fans realized a Tigers legend was in their midst.
“That’s one of the best third basemen ever…” murmured one admirer.
“You’re my all-time favorite Tiger!” another fan exclaimed. “I’ve got to send this photo to my dad!”
The source of all the excitement? Former Detroit Tigers All-Star Brandon Inge served as guest head coach for the Kalamazoo Growlers during their rivalry matchup against the Battle Creek Battle Jacks on Thursday, July 10.
Signed to a one-day contract, Inge took over coaching duties, set the lineup, and brought a dose of big-league energy to the Northwoods League. The Growlers marked the occasion with $15 ticket pricing — a nod to Inge’s jersey number — and hosted a 24-hour live auction featuring memorabilia from his 13-year MLB career.
Proceeds from the auction will benefit The Jr. Growlers Academy, a youth travel baseball league aimed at developing talent for future collegiate summer play.
It was Inge’s first return to West Michigan since 1999, when he suited up for the West Michigan Whitecaps after being drafted by Detroit in 1998.
The game ended with the Growlers topping the Battle Jacks, 9-5.
Now 48, Inge retired in 2013 after a 13-season MLB career. He posted a .233 batting average and hit 152 home runs — 140 of them as a Tiger.
“I’ve got great memories from my time in West Michigan,” Inge said. “The fans haven’t changed — they’re still genuine, hardworking folks.”
Before wrapping up his coaching stint, Inge took time to meet with fans, many of whom lined the concourse to shake his hand and reminisce.
For couple Cassie Sanders and Danny Walen, the moment was extra special.
“We found out on our first date that you’re both our favorite player,” Walen told Inge. “This is f—ing awesome!”
After hundreds of photos and handshakes, Inge left Homer Stryker Field humbled. “It was very amazing,” he said.
Though his Growlers cameo is over, Inge isn’t done coaching. He’ll lead his son Chase’s high school team during his senior season at Brighton High School. Plus, Inge is preparing to launch the Inge Performance Lab, a baseball training facility set to open in Brighton in three months.
