Tigers News: Pizza home run glove, Dillon Dingler ABS, Max Clark domination

The Detroit Tigers are finally admitting what fans have known for years: that Little Caesars glove in left-center at Comerica Park was basically an impossible target.

So, after five seasons and 400+ home runs at home without a single pizza-winning shot, the Tigers are finally giving hitters (and fans) a real chance in 2026. The once tiny 33-inch hole has been expanded to a massive 72 inches in diameter, more than doubling in size and nearly tripling the total hitting area.

The rules are still strict — it has to be a legit home run into (or bouncing into) the glove, with no fan interference or weird deflections. But if it happens? Every fan in southeast Michigan scores a free large Little Caesars pizza.

It’s equal parts promotion and persistence — and honestly, it’s about time. After years of near-misses, the Tigers didn’t just move the goalposts… they made the goal a whole lot bigger.

Tigers News: Dillon Dingler remains perfect in ABS challenges this season

As the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system reshapes how MLB games are managed, Tigers catcher Dillon Dingler is emerging as one of its earliest masters. After going 4-for-4 on challenges Sunday, he’s now a perfect 7-for-7 this season — a flawless mark that’s already translating into real value.

It’s not just accuracy — it’s judgment. Dingler has shown a sharp feel for when to challenge and when to hold back, avoiding wasted opportunities while maximizing impact. According to MLB’s internal tracking, that approach has already netted Detroit nearly eight runs.

In a game now decided by inches — sometimes fractions of them — Dingler is stealing outcomes for his team.

Tigers News: Max Clark continues dominant streak at Triple-A Toledo

Max Clark’s response to a rocky spring couldn’t be louder. After being sent to Triple-A Toledo amid questions about his readiness, the Tigers’ top prospect is forcing a recalibration.

Through his first nine games, Clark is slashing .382/.476/.559 with six doubles, showing not just production, but polish. The approach has been advanced, the swing under control, and perhaps most importantly, the confidence looks fully restored.

What’s just as notable is the defense. A perfect fielding percentage, four outfield assists and a double play suggest that the spring training concerns haven’t carried over — and may have even accelerated his growth.

Detroit was always going to be patient with Clark, especially given his age and lack of Triple-A experience. But performances like this have a way of changing plans.

If Clark continues to dominate at this level, the conversation may quickly shift from “when he’s ready” to “how soon is too soon?” — and the answer might be: not very.