Detroit Tigers unveil new City Connect uniforms

This week, the Detroit Tigers unveiled new City Connect  uniforms, which the team can choose to wear when they want to give the Old English D a day off.

The dark navy and electric blue jerseys feature the words “Motor City” emblazoned in white on the front — and have several other nods to Detroit, including references to tire treads, 313, Woodward and even a VIN tag that is exclusive to the Tigers baseball club.

Associate Professor and expert in product design at the College for Creative Studies Patrick Schiavone says he was surprised by the new jersey designs, but in a good way.

“I thought, OK, this is really modern, it was more modern than I kind of expected. Almost Star Trekky modern and a little bit nuts,” Schiavone said. “Like, go for it — I think this is really, really great. And I love the way it just takes into account everything Detroit.”

Listen: CCS Associate Professor Patrick Schiavone joins The Metro to talk about the Tigers’ new City Connect uniforms

However, Schiavone says some Tigers fans might be skeptical about the transition to bolder, darker colors.

“I can imagine that a lot of sports fans are a little concerned about it,” he said.

Schiavone says it’s important to balance traditional baseball values and new ideas for Detroit’s fans.

“So yes, tradition is important, but at the same time, doing something new, neat, cool is also very important,” he said.

Use the media player above to hear the full interview with Schiavone.