The Detroit Tigers have their new play-by-play announcer. The team announced on Thursday that Jason Benetti, one of the top voices in sports, will join the Tigers.
Benetti was previously the play-by-play broadcaster for the Chicago White Sox the past eight seasons. He also calls selected MLB, college football, and college basketball games for FOX, as well as March Madness games on the radio for Westwood One.
“I’m incredibly proud to join this historic and ascending Tigers franchise,” said Benetti in a release. “From every single person I talked with throughout the interview process it was clear why so many respected professionals and creative people have joined the organization in the last several years. There’s something special about it, and I’m excited to bring that energy to Tigers fans around the globe. I’d also like to thank Chris Ilitch, Ryan Gustafson, Scott Harris, and everyone else I’ve met with in the last several weeks who have been so welcoming. Everyone I spent time with made it clear this was the right place for me. I was born and raised in the Midwest, and understand how important sports are, especially here in the Motor City.”
Benetti will call a minimum of 127 Tigers games each season, and when Benetti is on a national assignment, radio play-by-play broadcaster Dan Dickerson will move over to television.
“Jason is a world-class talent and today is another tremendous step forward for the Tigers as we continue to build a championship-level organization and experience for our fans,” said Ryan Gustafson, EVP/COO of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “Beyond his talent, Jason’s story is inspirational and our shared commitment to excellence and innovation was apparent throughout our discussions. We are thrilled to welcome Jason to our family, joining an incredible group of broadcasters at the Tigers and Red Wings that create the on-air experience our fans deserve.”
“All of us at Bally Sports welcome Jason to Detroit, and we’re thrilled he’s joining our Tigers telecasts,” said Greg Hammeren, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Bally Sports Detroit. “Jason’s reputation as one of the best and brightest announcers across all of sports adds to our already strong production effort here in Detroit. His deep knowledge and love for baseball are traits shared by our incredible fans, and we’re looking forward to them getting to know Jason more starting in February when the Tigers take the field in Lakeland.”
