DETROIT STUMBLES IN CLEVELAND

The Detroit Tigers dropped a tightly contested 3-2 series opener to the division-leading Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on Friday, June 12, 2026, stalling the momentum of their high-flying June offense. Coming off a massive 11-0 blowout of the Minnesota Twins just a day prior, the Tigers' bats went largely cold, stifled by a dominant pitching performance from Cleveland’s Tanner Bibee.

Bibee Shuts Down the Tigers' Resurgence

The Tigers entered Friday night as baseball's hottest June offense, leading the league in OPS, slugging percentage, and barrels since the start of the month. However, Cleveland starter Tanner Bibee quickly proved to be an effective antidote. Bibee, who entered the game with a deceptive 1-7 record but was fresh off a strong previous start, completely controlled the pace. He struck out eight Tigers over seven-plus frames, keeping Detroit’s primary threats entirely off balance. The right-hander displayed pinpoint command, retiring 14 of 15 hitters during a masterful mid-game stretch. Detroit managed just two hits the entire night against Cleveland's arms.

All or Nothing: The Solo Shots

The only silver lining for Detroit's offense was that when they did make contact, they made it count for distance. Both of the Tigers' hits on the night left the ballpark. 

• James Outman broke the ice for the Tigers in the top of the third inning, launching a solo shot to deep center field to briefly cut the Guardians' lead to 2-1.
• Spencer Torkelson provided a late glint of hope in the top of the eighth, smashing his own solo home run to bring Detroit within one run. 

Aside from those two swings, the Tigers generated almost zero threat on the basepaths. In the top of the ninth, Cleveland closer Cade Smith stepped onto the mound and retired Detroit in order to secure his Major League-leading 22nd save of the season, preserving the 3-2 final. The loss drops Detroit to a frustrating 0-5 record against Cleveland in 2026.

Looking Ahead

The road doesn't get any easier for Detroit, but reinforcements are on the way. Manager A.J. Hinch confirmed that ace Tarik Skubal will be activated from the injured list to start Saturday's game, while Casey Mize is expected to return on Sunday. The Tigers will look to their pitching stars to quiet the Guardians' bats and split the series.

While losing yet another game to Cleveland stings, smart Tigers fans shouldn't panic about this 3-2 defeat; in fact, there are plenty of reasons to feel incredibly optimistic about where this team is heading.

Yes, Tanner Bibee had the Tiger's number on Friday, but let's not forget what this offense did just 24 hours prior—absolutely demolishing the Twins 11-0. One quiet night against a division rival doesn't erase the fact that Detroit boasts baseball's hottest offense in June. We still lead the majors this month in OPS, slugging, and barrels.

Even on an "off" night where hits were hard to come by, Detroit's hitters showed elite, game-changing power. James Outman’s blast kept us in it early, and seeing Spencer Torkelson crush a solo shot in the eighth is a massive sign of life from a bat we desperately need down the stretch. The Tigers fought until the very last out against the division leaders on their own turf.

SAVANNAH BANANAS BASEBALL COLLABORATION WITH DISNEY PLUS

The Savannah Bananas, the Harlem Globetrotters equivalent for baseball, which merge showmanship with athletic feats, are on fire. They are filling sold out stadiums as they barnstorm across America with a family friendly brand of entertainment that is affordable for budget conscious consumers and provides an enjoyable ballpark experience. Their tickets are one of the hottest to get a hold of these days, in fact I've tried to get tickets to a game for my family to go for three years in a row now with no success, so I can see the inside joke on why they called one of the new teams to their baseball league "The Firefighters" to mock the popularity of the brand. If you want to check out this goofy style of baseball and haven't been able to get to a game in-person, Disney+ is providing people with the chance to check out the Savannah Bananas hype. 

Disney is collaborating with the Savannah Bananas, making Disney+ in the U.S. the home of The Banana Bowl set to stream this October. The Banana Bowl will stream live on Disney+ and feature the teams in the league [Bannas, Clowns, Coconuts, Firefighters, Party Animals & Tailgaters] facing off for the season championship. Known for blending athleticism with entertainment, the game will include one of the biggest performances the league has ever seen, bringing together all six teams, along with its signature on-field showmanship from first pitch to final out. 

The Disney+ Banana Bowl broadcast builds on the following slate of collaborations, where Banana Ball meets Disney storytelling: 

• Savannah Bananas on “Dancing with the Stars” The Savannah Bananas bring their signature showmanship to the ballroom, with standout player Jackson Olson set to compete on the upcoming season of “Dancing with the Stars,” simulcasting live this fall across ABC and Disney+ and streaming next day on Hulu. 
• Savannah Bananas Games Across ESPN and Disney+ ESPN, Disney+ and the Savannah Bananas have launched a 25-game exclusive package, with every game streaming live on the ESPN App and Disney+, and select matchups airing across ESPN networks and ABC.
• Savannah Bananas Day at Disneyland Resort — March 26, 2026 Banana Ball returned to Southern California as the Savannah Bananas took over Anaheim for a one-of-a-kind celebration at Disneyland Resort. Coinciding with “Savannah Bananas Day,” the team’s game at Angel Stadium, featuring a matchup against the Indianapolis Clowns, brought the dance-filled, fan-first spirit of Banana Ball directly into the Disney Parks experience. 
• Banana Ball heads to Walt Disney World — May 29-30, 2026 Banana Ball’s signature showmanship heads to Walt Disney World Resort, with a game at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex woven into a broader fan celebration. The matchup will feature the Party Animals against the Loco Beach Coconuts, showcasing the expanding Banana Ball universe and its growing national footprint. 

VERO BEACH LEGENDS FANTASY CAMP

While visiting the Detroit Sports Spectacular event at Suburban Collection Showplace, I bumped into Jerry Lewis who runs an annual fantasy camp for baseball fanatics. Take a Spring Break in Florida playing baseball while being coached by Detroit Tigers alumni including Doug Bair, Juan Berenguer, Howard Johnson, Frank Tanana, Mike Heath, Jon Warden and Joel Zumaya during Legends Fantasy Camp.

This Detroit Tigers themed event for adults 21+ takes place at the Jackie Robinson Complex which is home to historic Holman Field which is where the Dodgers held spring training until they left Florida for Arizona in 2009. Now the facility (formerly known as Dodgertown) is operated by Major League Baseball as a year-round sports complex and conference center for youth, amateur, national team, and professional athletes and provides an instructional school for Minor and Major League umpires.

Play baseball all day on great fields while being coached by former MLB players. Registration includes six nights on-site accommodations and three meals per day. There are also evening social activities with the former Major League Baseball players in attendance. Spend a week pretending you are in Spring Training trying to make the Tigers roster. The 2025 event takes place January 13-19. 

For more information, reach out to Jerry at (248) 821-0635 or jerrylewis1968@yahoo.com. Click here to visit the Legends Baseball Camp Facebook page. Play ball!

MASTERPIECES DETROIT TIGERS PUZZLES

What do you do on an overcast, rainy summer afternoon? Jigsaw puzzles never go out of style and provide an amusing way to pass time. Especially when their imagery is tied to America's pastime and features your favorite baseball team. MasterPieces Puzzle Company has officially licensed Major League Baseball puzzles and we had fun putting together some impressive looking ones with a Detroit Tigers theme.

Comerica Park Panoramic

This MasterPieces Panoramic Detroit Tigers Puzzle is 13" x 39" when completed featuring the view from behind home plate of the team's home stadium Comerica Park. The puzzle's image has such great detail that it gives you the feel of actually being at a ballgame. This puzzle is made of recycled material to be environmentally friendly so you don't need to feel guilty about the 1,000 pieces crafted in making it. 

A fun way to show your fanship when you can't watch a game due to a rain delay. The skies are always sunny at Comerica Park when it comes to MasterPieces Panoramic Detroit Tigers Puzzle. The thousand piece puzzle does an impressive job of capturing details of not just the stadium but the Detroit skyline in its background. Where is your favorite spot to get a seat at when going to see a baseball game?

Detroit Tigers Gameday

I love classic pickup trucks, so this puzzle sporting Paws, the Detroit Tigers mascot, tailgating with one absolutely has me geeked. Grilling out in the ballpark parking lot, Paws is enjoying his favorite baseball game treats. What are your favorite snacks to eat at a baseball game?

This impressive jigsaw puzzle is a thousand pieces crafted from recycled materials just like the Comerica Park Panoramic. When completed the puzzle is 19.25" x 26.75". Show your pride in the Old English D by having fun putting together MasterPieces' Detroit Tigers Gameday puzzle.

Both puzzles are challenging enough to make them entertaining but not so hard as to give you a headache. When was the last time you did a jigsaw puzzle? Check out all the ones Masterpieces has to offer at masterpiecesinc.com. 

DETROIT TIGERS OPENING DAY LEGO STYLE

I had the opportunity to be at Comerica Park for Opening Day but unfortunately was tied up in court having to handle 50 traffic ticket hearings instead of being able to be at the ballpark watching the Detroit Tigers play. So, I appreciated this video from LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan that let me enjoy the spirit of the downtown festivities I missed out on participating in. Was geeked to view their LEGO-ized version of a parade on Woodward Avenue and the Tiger's baseball stadium.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan in the suburb of Auburn Hills located inside the Great Lakes Crossing mall has an impressive MINILAND that recreates downtown Detroit made out of more than a million LEGO building bricks. The Comerica Park replica itself is made from 25,000 LEGO bricks and weighs a whopping 250 pounds. It is filled with more than 400 LEGO mini-figures representing fans and players. 

Visitors at this LEGOLAND Discovery Center can even interact with the stadium playing a pinball-style baseball game where they can “go to bat” and try to score everything from a single to a home run. The MINILAND often has special exhibits based upon current events such as a Thanksgiving Day parade and Christmas decorations to alter the appearance of its downtown streets and buildings. For Opening Day, the MINILAND had a baseball celebration parade on display and had a celebrity singing the National Anthem on the field of Comerica Park. It is always interesting to see what may be new in the MINILAND during a visit to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan.

In addition to the MINILAND exhibit, LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan has two amusement rides (Kingdom Quest + Merlin's Apprentice), a 4D cinema, build-a-car race track and more. For directions and additional information, head over to legolanddiscoverycenter.com/michigan 

ACROSS THE BOARD BASEBALL GAME

While the Major Leagues may not be back in action yet, we've been having fun playing the Across the Board Baseball Game in our backyard. Across the Board Games produce unique handcrafted board games with sports themes such as horse racing, soccer, hockey and baseball that are crafted right here in the USA. We have a lot of fun playing their baseball game!

This 2-player game replicates an outing to the ballpark. Players compete on a wooden board shaped like a baseball diamond. Each side has a dug out filled with four batters designated by sturdy metal chrome or brass pegs. Just like in a real ball game each team has nine innings to score as many runs as they can. Whoever scores the most wins!

During a team's at bat they continue until they get three outs. In this game hits, walks and outs are determined by the role of the dice. Get a hit or walk and move your teams' pegs around the diamond. Roll an out and move a marker that designates how many outs you have on the scoreboard.

Roll two dice for each at bat. Roll two 1s and you've just hit a HOME RUN! But roll two 5s and you STRIKE OUT! Other combinations in die rolls include singles, doubles, triples and walks as well as well as ground outs, pop outs and fly outs. This game is all about luck but still is really fun to play!

As you go through innings, use the included dry erase marker to update the score board. It provides an easy way to write in team names and scores. We've found you can rub away the ink on the score board with no residue left behind maintaining a clean look to your scoreboard game after game.

This baseball game has been a home run for our family. It has earned a Geek Daddy nod of approval for being a relaxing way to enjoy some family time while playing it. The game isn't complicated to play making it great for family game nights. The game's real wood board makes it stand out and gives it the appearance of something you'll want to keep around the house long term to bring out when friends and family visit.

If you are looking for an all ages game that is easy to play yet is sure to provide hours of enjoyment, this dad blogger recommends this handcrafted, made in America game from Across the Board. It is unique and the type of thing that could one day become a family heirloom thanks to its quality workmanship. Play ball!

TIGER TRAXX ICE CREAM

 ** A Geek Daddy received the featured product for FREE to review **

Two of my favorite things, baseball and ice cream, have come together in Hudsonville Tigers Traxx.  Baseball is back in the D! And along with the return of the Detroit Tigers playing another season of Major League Baseball at Comerica Park is Hudsonville's Tiger Traxx ice cream.

Hudsonville is the official ice cream of the Detroit Tigers and has created its limited edition Tiger Traxx variety in homage to my favorite baseball team that will be available throughout the current baseball season.  It is made up of Hudsonville's original vanilla ice cream and loaded with chocolate covered salty pretzels that look like orange baseballs along with ripples of thick chocolate fudge.  Oh it is so good!  Perfect for a snack while watching the Tigers play on television or listening to one of their games on the radio.  You can purchase Tiger Traxx anywhere Hudsonville ice cream is sold in Michigan.  Plus if you are at Comerica Park for a ball game keep an eye out for the Hudsonville team providing free ice cream samples during Tigers home stands.

Holland, Michigan-based Hudsonville Creamery & Ice Cream Company is known for producing artisan crafted ice cream that is available at affordable rather than gourmet prices.  The company has a goal of making great products that are priced to be attainable for anyone who enjoys ice cream.  They really do stand out by providing great taste and freshness in their ice cream flavors.  Hudsonville is able to do this by having its manufacturing facility in close proximity to the western Michigan dairy farms that provide them with the milk for making their ice cream.  In fact, Hudsonville works to get the freshest products it can for all its ingredients which really makes a positive difference.  You can tell this company's commitment to creating the very best ice cream on the market with every bite or lick of its finely crafted flavors.  Hudsonville Ice Cream really is delicious!

To share my enjoyment of Hudsonville ice cream, I'm giving away a FREE 56 oz carton to one luck winner.  A Geek Daddy will mail the randomly selected winner a manufacturer's coupon that is good for any flavor of Hudsonville Ice Cream you want to select at your local grocery store.  Must be a Michigan resident over 18 years old to participate.  Just complete the entries below for a chance to win:

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Disclaimer:  While Tiger Traxx does not include peanuts or tree nuts it is produced in a facility that utilizes those ingredients.  Because of the risk of cross contamination I do not allow my children that have food allergies to consume any Hudsonville ice cream products whether or not the allergens are included ingredients.  We do not allow any products that actually include ingredients my children are allergic to inside our home and items that may have been contaminated in production process are case-by-case determination.

Contest Rules:  A Geek Daddy has not been financially compensated for this endorsement or hosting the giveaway but was provided the same items being provided as a prize for personal use.  A Geek Daddy is hosting the promotion as a benefit to our readers. Must be a Michigan resident over the age of 18 to participate.  Winner will be randomly selected from all eligible entries. Must provide a valid email address and respond within 48 hours of being contacted providing a shipping address to accept the prize.  Failure to reply within the designated time frame will forfeit the prize and a new random winner will be selected from eligible entries. The prize which consist of a manufacturer's coupon that expires on 12/31/2017 courtesy of Hudsonville Ice Cream and valid wherever their products are sold. A Geek Daddy will mail the the prize to the randomly selected winner via the U.S. Postal Service. By participating in this free promotion you waive any liability of any kind against the publisher of this blog regarding this contest or the prize.

Fuzzy Baseball by John Steven Gurney

** A Geek Daddy received the featured product for free to review**

If you are a fan of the game of baseball, you'll love the graphic novel FUZZY BASEBALL by author and illustrator John Steven Gurney published by PAPERCUTZ which specializes in the creation of comic book stories for young readers and teens.  Enjoy America's pastime all year long within the pages of this wonderful story that promotes themes of perseverance and good sportsmanship through a tale of ninth inning heroics during a baseball game between two rival teams.  These aren't just two ordinary teams though -- the Fernwood Valley Fuzzies and Rocky Ridge Red Claws are long time rivals ... and they're rosters are made up entirely of animals such Jackie Rabitson the bunny playing in centerfield for the Fuzzies to Gator Gibson the alligator who pitches for the Red Claws inspired by real athletes like the Dodger's Jackie Robinson and the Cardinal's Bob Gibson.  A dominating pitcher for St. Louis, Gibson earned 17 strike outs versus the Detroit Tigers in Game 1 of the 1968 World Series.  Jackie Robinson is know not just for being a gifted athlete who played second base for the Dodgers but also as the first African American to play in Major League Baseball.  In addition to enjoying the well drawn illustrations of the characters in the book, readers can also delve deeper to learn more about the real people that inspired the play on names used in the book plus learn a bit about baseball strategy as they read through the story.

The Rocky Ridge Red Claws are the dominant team composed of rough and tough players who will do whatever it takes to win a game.  Though they have a hyena playing shortstop the way this team plays is no laughing matter.  Let your guard down playing against this team and Snaps Tortelli will put a bite into you or you'll get gored by Reggie Rhino going yard against you.

 The Fernwood Valley Fuzzies are the underdogs in this match up of long-time rivals.  The team is led by a grizzly veteran manager who also plays first base may be out-sized by their opponents but they don't give up.  With players like Pony Perez, Pepe Peritto and Jackie Rabitson the Fuzzies have the agility and speed on the field and the base path to give any team a run for their money.

Who wins the game?  You'll have to read the graphic novel to find out!  What I can say is that the pages are incredibly drawn so that flipping through the pages of this graphic novel to take in the illustrations is a very enjoyable experience as Gurney brings to life the players on these two teams as well as the audience taking in the game, as adorable animals that kids, and kids at heart, will be delighted by.  Despite the wild characters in the book, it's story stays grounded with realistic sports premises and examples that make the fantastic elements relatable to actually feeling like you are taking in a baseball game.  In addition to its excellent artistic attributes, the author also does a nice job scripting out the story so that in addition to enjoying the artwork the book is also a very entertaining read.

FUZZY BASEBALL is a book that my son and daughter both will regularly pick out from our book shelf to read over and over again.  It's also a story that this passionate Detroit Tigers fan will even admit to enjoyed reading through on his own and thoroughly enjoying because hey who says parents can't embrace enjoying a children's book too!  With well-developed and well-drawn characters and a fun baseball story that my children love this comic book aficionado and life long baseball fan gives FUZZY BASEBALL a nod of approval from A Geek Daddy.

For more information, visit fuzzybaseball.com

Major League Baseball Customized Fathers Day Uniforms Support Prostate Cancer Awareness & Research

I had to take a second glance and ask the other people in the room with me if there was something wrong with the TV while watching the Detroit Tigers game on Fathers Day as the team's uniforms seemed different.  In fact, they were.  For the first time ever, Major League Baseball (MLB) was having their teams wear customized uniforms and caps for Fathers Day with a "baby blue" theme to them.  While I'm a traditionalist when it comes to the uniforms that sport the Old English D and appreciate keeping a classic look to the outfits, in my opinion these Fathers Day uniforms were very sharp!

For the last several years, MLB has had its teams don pink uniforms on Mothers Day to show support for breast cancer survivors and promote awareness on the topic.  The reproductions of these official pink Mothers Day uniforms and caps that were made available for purchase to fans have had their MLB licensing royalties donated to the non-profits Susan G. Komen and Stand Up to Cancer.  This year the initiative was expanded to include Fathers Day.

The focus of the Fathers Day MLB promotion was to raise awareness, and some money, for prostate cancer prevention.  According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 7 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime with 1 in 39 men dying from the disease.  Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths for men residing within the United States behind only lung cancer.  Fortunately, if discovered early and treated many men can survive prostate cancer.  CLICK HERE to learn more about prostate cancer from the American Cancer Society.

As with the Mothers Day specialty uniforms, these unique Fathers Day ones will have their MLB licensing royalties donated to charity as well go to the Prostate Cancer Foundation and Stand Up to Cancer.  If you like these replica jerseys and caps don't wait to long to grab one as they are meant to be collectible items produced in limited supplies.  I'm not a fan of the flat brimmed snapback caps that seem to be all the rage lately so I'm glad New Era also produced a more traditional Fathers Day version of the ball cap for dads like me who appreciate the vintage look.

Check out all of the Fathers Day looks that were worn around Major League Baseball by all the teams for their June 19th games:




Major League Baseball teams will also be wearing special patriotic themed uniforms on the Fourth of July.  MLB's licensing royalties from these replica Fourth of July caps and jerseys will be donated to the the veterans' support charity Welcome Back Veterans.

So what to think of these special themed uniforms for sporting teams? Love them, hate them or just don't care? 

Give DAD a treat for Fathers Day from GourmetGiftBaskets.com

** A Geek Daddy received the featured products for free**

As Fathers Day approaches, it was nice of GourmetGiftBaskets.com to send some special treats our way out of respect for A Geek Daddy being one of their favorite dad blogs.  The Belgian chocolate-dipped Oreo® cookies they surprised me with were delicious and what father wouldn't appreciate that they spelled out #1 DAD.  Neck ties are a popular Fathers Day gift, but take my word on it after having devoured a yummy box of Oreo Cookies for Dad from GourmetGiftBaskets.com, one of these decorated cookies is the type of "tie" I'd prefer to get. This gift pack includes 12 classic Oreo cookies each individually dipped in gourmet chocolate and are decorated to let the dad in your life know how special he is to you.

GourmetGiftBaskets.com also sent us a Deluxe Meat & Cheese Sampler to try out which was simply delicious.  I enjoyed this assortment of artisan meats, cheeses and crackers along with a Strongbow Hard Apple Cider while lounging on the back deck enjoying listening to a Detroit Tigers baseball game on the radio.  Enjoying this gift basket, that included applewood smoked garlic summer sausage along with Chipotle Cheddar, Jalapeno Jack and Wisconsin Swiss, while listening to a ball game made for a wonderfully relaxing weekend afternoon.

Fathers Day is June 19th and GourmetGiftBaskets.com has a huge variety of present ideas to select from.  From golfing to fishing and barbecuing to gardening, GourmetGiftBaskets.com has something that will appeal to all interests and tastes!  Summer Seasonal Beer Bucket, Caught the BIG One - Fishing Gift Basket, Hole in ONE Golf Gift Pack, Gardening Gift Basket, and Barbecue Enthusiast Gift Basket and the Gourmet Breakfast are some of the most popular Fathers Day gift suggestions available.

I love popcorn!  So  I have to say I'd be delighted if my wife and kids surprised me on Fathers Day with the Backyard BBQ Popcorn Sampler.  HINT! HINT!  This gift pack is one of my favorites from the Fathers Day Gift Idea List at GourmetGiftBaskets.com as it contains a variety of interesting and unique flavors of popcorn Honey Mustard, Hickory Maple Bacon, BBQ Ribs, Chipotle BBQ, Cajun, Buttered Corn On The Cob, Dill Pickle, Zesty Ranch, Sun Dried Tomato, and Watermelon.  Each flavor is packed in its own sealed bag for freshness and contains two cups of popcorn.  Oh yeah! I want to try this out!

 

What dad wouldn't appreciate being surprised by finding a tasty treat at his door step?!  Don't get your dad a tie, socks or underwear for Fathers Day! Show him you care by sending something special from GourmetGiftBaskets.com.

Best MLB "Kids Clubs" for 2016

Major League Baseball is back in the full swing of things for another season so that means it is time for A Geek Daddy's annual look at the best "Kids Clubs" that teams have to offer this year.  Getting your child a Kids Club membership can be a fun way to connect your child to a favorite team or can be a nice souvenir during a family outing to the ballpark. MLB Kids Clubs are a membership fan package sold by various baseball teams that can be purchased for children that can include things such as team apparel and branded merchandise, special experiences at the ballpark, and a kids focused team newsletter among other things. 

Last year I purchased a Detroit Tigers "Kids Club" membership for my kids to help boost their interest in my favorite team since they watch a lot of the games with me on TV.  We also went to Toronto to see the Tigers play last summer and while we were at the Rogers Centre picked up the Blue Jays Kids Club pack as a memento of our trip for my kids.  When you think of how expensive souvenirs can be at the ballpark, the Blue Jays Kids Club pack which featured a nice baseball cap, a drawstring backpack, a metallic water bottle, and a canvass wallet was a great bargain.

Of the 30 MLB teams, 25 have kids programs to encourage children to become fans of the team and develop an interest in the sport of baseball.  The programs vary from team to team in both the price charged to participate (ranging from FREE to $50) and the benefits provided, so it is important for the adult who may be purchasing a kids club membership for their child, grandchild, niece, nephew and so on to do some research before signing up to participate to make sure there is a value in your situation to participate.  Some of the programs are really nice aimed to enhance the fan experience and enjoyment of the game while other Kids Clubs aren't much of a value and seem to be run as just another way to try to get a few more bucks out of a fan's wallet.

A Geek Daddy Blog has taken a look at each of the current programs offered by MLB teams and ranked the Top 5 KID CLUBS for 2016 in my opinion based upon these factors -  price/value, coolness/wow factor, quality of materials/swag, special events, and branding for the program.  So going from fifth place to the best we have:

5.  CINCINNATI REDS - REDS HEADS

The Reds always do a stellar job with branding for their "REDS HEADS"  Kids Club.  They provide some great members-only experiences like free autograph sessions with the players and other special ballpark events children can participate.  They also supplement their Kids Club benefits with nice freebies and discounts from sponsors that include the Cincinnati Zoo, Newport Aquarium, Bob Evans, Cincinnati Museum Center, and Coney Island among others.  Normally the Reds have some of the nicest swag of all the MLB Kids Clubs but this year they are a bit lacking in my opinion though the REDS HEADS branded pillow case, sports performance shirt, gym bag and spirit cape this year's members are provided are still nice and a lot better than the merchandise provided by a lot of the other programs.  If your family roots for the Reds and has children between the ages of 3 and 12 this really is a nice program to participate in.

4.  ATLANTA BRAVES - BRAVES KIDS CLUB

The Brave's first baseman, Freddie Freeman is the player ambassador to their Kids Club providing a nice connection between the team and the children.  Each child get a welcome letter from him and a Freddie Freeman Kids Club jersey.  Kids Club members also get access to special events at the ballpark such as a VIP Batting Practice Experience, VIP access to Kids Run the Bases, a meet and greet with team mascot Homer and the tools from the Home Depot Tool Race, free face painting and a chance to to be selected to "bang the big drum" at a game among other opportunities.  Plus a coupon for a FREE Chick-fil-A sandwich.

3.  BALTIMORE ORIOLES - JUNIOR ORIOLES DUGOUT CLUB

The Junior Orioles Dugout Club provides each kid with a FREE ticket to each of six specially designated games and provides parents with special discounted pricing for those game day tickets.  At every one of these Dugout Club games, the child also gets a special members-only giveaway item available only at that game.  Each Kids Club membership also includes a Junior Orioles Dugout Club branded cap, sunglasses and messenger bag that each member received with their welcome package.  Members are kept updated on team news throughout the season with a subscription to Orioles Kids Magazine.

2. LOS ANGELES ANGELS OF ANAHEIM - JUNIOR ANGELS

Priced at $18 this is one of the better Kids Club bargains available throughout Major League Baseball.  With a membership, children are provided the opportunity to attend four games for FREE, though a parent or guardian still needs purchase a ticket to attend with them.  They do a nice job of branding their Kids Club merchandise with its Rally Monkey mascot.  Junior Angels members receive with their membership a lunch bag, t-shirt, sweatband, and a toy featuring Rally Monkey.  All members are entered into drawings throughout the season where randomly picked children receive autographed items from Angels players.  The team also allows adult fans to donate money which sponsors sick children at a local children's hospital to be Junior Angels with players and coaches personally delivering those kids' membership gear to them at the medical facility throughout the year.

1.  KANSAS CITY ROYALS- SLUGGERRR'S BLUE CREW

Kansas City gets top honors because in addition to free ticket vouchers and special members events and opportunities they have the nicest swag out there this year.  For a reasonably priced $25, Sluggerrr's Blue Crew members receive a very nice exclusive zippered KC performance pullover, special edition KC flat bill snap back cap, a Blue Crew sports necklace and a VIP membership badge with lanyard.

We're also giving an honorable mention nod to the Arizona Diamondbacks for their NO CHEW CREW promotion this season.  The team has teamed up with Delta Dental of Arizona to bring awareness to young fans about the dangers of spit tobacco.

During one game each month of the season, Delta Dental of Arizona hosts a SUNDAY SLUGGERS 30-minute show featuring a D-backs player and D. Baxter the team's bobcat mascot who discuss the dangers of using smokeless chewing tobacco.  Plus any kid under the age of 15 who takes the NO CHEW PLEDGE while attending any game or by filling it out online joins the NO CHEW CREW which includes the perks of a FREE children's admission ticket to every Sunday home game this season and a FREE toothbrush.

Cheering on your favorite sporting team can be a great bonding experience for parents and kids plus a fun way to spend time together as a family.  MLB Kids Clubs can be a nice way to introduce your children to the team you cheer for and encourage them to join you as a fan.  What team are you rooting for this year?

Of course we've only highlighted a handful of the Kids Clubs that are available to join.  Check out your favorite team and see if you like what they have to offer. For more information on the various MLB Kids Club programs available, visit mlb.mlb.com/mlb/kids/

5 Most Peanut Allergy Friendly Major League Teams

Take me out to the ball game,

Take me out with the crowd;

Just buy me some PEANUTS and Cracker Jack,

I don't care if I never get back.

Let me root, root, root for the home team,

If they don't win, it's a shame.

For it's one, two, three strikes, you're out,

At the old ball game. 

I've been a passionate baseball fan since my family took me to watch my first game at the old Tiger Stadium at the intersection of Michigan and Trumbull in downtown Detroit.  In my opinion you just can't beat being outside on a nice day enjoying watching a good baseball game.  Going to games was always a thrill when I was a kid and as an adult I've regularly visited the ballpark to take in our national pastime even going to a handful of games in 2003 when our hometown Detroit Tigers set a record for losing more games in a season than any other team in American League history. Unfortunately sharing my love for the ballpark isn't something I can easily pass along to my children.  You see they have a severe, life-threatening food allergy to peanuts and taking them to a game without any special accommodations is just asking for trouble.

I always use to sing along "Take Me Out To The Ball Game" during the 7th Inning Stretch at games without much thought to its lyrics but if you think about it that 1908 song, which really is the sport's anthem, highlights the strong multi-generational association between peanuts and baseball.  Take a look around the next time you go to a stadium for a ball game and you'll see more people than you might have expected snacking on peanuts.  Then look at the ground.  Wow! I never realized just how littered with peanut shells ballparks are until it became an issue for our family but those darn things are everywhere.  So while our family loves the game it's not often we get the chance to go out to root, root, root for the home team because it just isn't worth the risk of exposing our children to a situation that could put them into anaphylactic shock.

Sometimes an opportunity does present itself though for us to safely take our kids to a ball game.  Recently we took a road trip to Toronto to see the Blue Jays take on the Tigers from a peanut allergy friendly section.  The Toronto Blue Jays really did a nice job with making some accommodations for fans suffering from food allergies so that they could feel comfortable going to the stadium to go see a game live from the stands. Everyone with tickets to the peanut allergy friendly section were allowed to enter an entrance to the stadium that took you directly to the seating area to reduce any potential contact with allergens.  The section was power washed and checked to make sure it was cleaned of any peanut shells prior to the game.  The concessions closest to the section took a break from selling peanuts that game.  A few extra staff policed the area to make sure no one brought any peanuts within the restricted area plus one of the medical teams normally on duty was re-situated to be close by just in case someone did have an allergic reaction.  These weren't overly expensive or difficult accommodations to make but they made a big difference in allowing the people with peanut allergies and their families to have a fun and safe outing at the ball park.  Efforts like those by the Toronto Blue Jays show that peanuts don't need to be banned from a stadium to avoid disenfranchising baseball fans who suffer from this food allergy but rather showing a little consideration can make a big difference in providing an opportunity for a dad or mom to take their kid to a game for a family outing they might not otherwise been able to have.

When it comes to Major League Baseball teams providing access to games for people with peanut allergies it runs the gamut of not providing any sort of accommodation at all to taking advantage of these consumer's disability to price gouge them for tickets  to special sections that make an honest, concerted effort in providing opportunities for affordable and enjoyable outing for people suffering from this medical condition. A Geek Daddy has done some research and selected our 5 Most Peanut Friendly Teams in Major League Baseball for 2015.  Criteria for the selection included hosting a peanut allergy friendly section at their stadium, the ease of finding information online about a team's efforts to cater to people suffering from peanut allergies, the affordability of ticket prices, the availability of tickets and number of games offered, and going above and beyond to provide an excellent experience.  So without further ado here our top selections:

1.  Boston Red Sox

This is the 11th year that the Red Sox have made peanut allergy friendly accommodations available to fans.  Every team home stand one of the areas in Fenway Park's Media Booth is allocated to a family that has a child with a severe peanut allergy.  A doctor's note confirming a child's severe peanut allergy is required to be placed on the waiting list.  Booth F holds six people with tickets at $55 each including a Red Sox goody bag along with the priority seating arrangements and a view similar to the one the play-by-play broadcasters have from a secure window enclosed area.

Additionally, the Red Sox host several games blocking off outdoor sections that hold from 70 to 200 people in a peanut restricted zone.  In 2015 they hosted four of these peanut allergy friendly sections on Sundays throughout the months of July and August including a game versus our hometown team the Detroit Tigers.  In addition to cleaning peanut residue from the area and restricting peanuts during the game around this section, these games have a few extra welcoming touches to them.  The team displays a scoreboard message during the game "The Boston Red Sox Welcome Our Peanut Allergy Families to Fenway Park" plus their mascot Wally the Green Monster devotes a half inning to swing by the peanut allergy friendly section to greet and interact with attendees.  Plus like the people who are able to sit in Booth F for a game each person gets a special Red Sox goody bag.

The Red Sox were given top billing this year for their continued and sustained efforts to accommodate fans with food allergies, their hosting food allergy friendly sections during summer weekend games when attendance is at its peak, and for their efforts to provide access to games to children with severe food allergies through making Booth F available throughout the entire season.

2.  Toronto Blue Jays

The Blue Jays made the list this year because our family experienced their event first hand and had a wonderful time.  The only bad part of the game was watching the Tigers get pecked apart 9-2 by those feisty birds but we did get some nice complimentary Blue Jays jerseys out of our visit.  The information was easy to find online as that was how our family found out about the section and purchased our tickets.  They didn't care we were driving over from the opposing team's hometown in another country to attend the game either as the Blue Jays staff we dealt with were as friendly and helpful as people could be.  The team hosted the peanut allergy friendly section six times throughout the season and tickets were affordable at $32 each.

3.  Philadelphia Phillies

The Phillies let peanut allergy fans watch the game in style from specially designated suites.  During seven games this season the team hosted what they call Peanut Reduced Suites which were specially cleaned and where peanuts were banned.  They call them "reduced" because you never know if wind might blow some peanut debris or dust someone's way from another section of the ball park - but that really is a minimal risk for this and the peanut allergy friendly sections located at other MLB stadiums for most though not all people with peanut allergies - so that is meant to be a disclaimer on potential liability. In fact none of these fan sections are ever labeled as "safe" but rather as "reduced" peanut zones or allergy "friendly" areas, so just as when out in public anywhere else people with peanut allergies need to be prepared for the possibility of incidental exposure from being out and about.  Locations that provide suites like the Phillies do provide a bit of extra peace of mind because if the wind does really pick up people know they can go inside. For $60 you get a great view of the field plus a food and non-alcoholic beverage buffet.  If you've priced out MLB tickets recently you know that for a suite seat and sweet buffet that's not a bad deal.

4.  Minnesota Twins

The Twins have coordinated Peanut Controlled Days the last few years with the Anaphylaxis & Food Allergy Association to provide zones at select games catering to people with peanut allergies.  In 2015, Target Field provided two private open air balconies in left field at twelve games throughout the season that took special precautions to provide a safe and comfortable atmosphere for fans with peanut allergies.  Tickets were also very affordable at $24 each. It's nice to see a sports team working together with a food allergy advocacy and research organization like AFAA to address stadium accessibility and safety concerns.

5.  San Diego Padres

Speaking of working with a food allergy advocacy and research group not only did the San Diego Padres do that in organizing their food allergy friendly zone at Petco Park this year but they also donated a percentage of those ticket sales to F.A.R.E. (Food Allergy Research & Education).  Way to go Padres!

If your local Major League baseball team wasn't included on the list, contact them and see if they offer a peanut allergy friendly section anytime during the season.  If not, ask them why not?

CLICK HERE for more information about peanut allergies.

The Top Major League Baseball "Kids Clubs" for 2015

It'll be Opening Day in a few weeks and soon Major League Baseball action will be in full swing for its 2015 season.  I've been a passionate Detroit Tigers fan since being a child and it appears my kids are gaining an appreciation and passion for the game from the time we spend enjoying the national pastime together.  One way to encourage your children to become fans of the game, and also carry on your support of a favorite team, is to consider purchasing a Kids Club membership for them from one of your favorite Major League teams.  This could be especially useful if you plan on attending a Major League Baseball game this summer because you could use the gear/swag as a souvenir to give your child at the game during your family outing to the ballpark rather than spend the elevated and extraordinary amounts of money charged for hats, jerseys, baseballs and other mementos at the onsite gift shops.

Of the 30 MLB teams, 25 have kids programs to encourage children to become fans of the team and develop an interest in the sport of baseball.  The programs vary from team to team in both the price charged to participate (ranging from FREE to $50) and the benefits provided, so it is important for the adult who may be purchasing a kids club membership for their child, grandchild, niece, nephew and so on to do some research before signing up to participate to make sure there is a value in your situation to participate.  Some of the programs are really nice aimed to enhance the fan experience and enjoyment of the game while other Kids Clubs seem to be run as just another way to try to get a few more bucks out of a fan's wallet.

A Geek Daddy Blog has taken a look at each of the current programs offered by MLB teams and have ranked the Top 5 KID CLUBS for 2015 based upon these factors -  price/value, coolness/wow factor, quality of materials/swag, special events, and branding.   While I have to admit normally rooting for American League teams to win the World Series in this competition the National League swept all the top rankings for providing the best value to fans who participate in their Kids Clubs.  So going from fifth place to the best we have:

5) San Diego Jr. Padres - This program for kid's 14 years old and younger is FREE!  Jr. Padres earn a reward for every home game they attend by scanning their official card.  Rewards range from a rubber bracelet for attending one game to an exclusive player autograph session if the Jr. Padre makes it to the stadium for 11 games during the season. Club members also receive exclusive access to special team hosted events. Moms who go to the games with their Jr. Padres win too getting a special parent gift - a mom themed tumbler.  If you are already going to some games you have nothing to lose and get some extra perks by enrolling in the team's Kids Club.

4) St. Louis Cardinals Kids Club - The Cardinals really do a stand out job of working to create an experience to develop children into life long fans which includes having two distinct clubs, the Kids Club for ages 4 to 13 and a Varsity Club for teens 14 to 19 years old.

The Cardinals Kids Club provides its members with a fun exclusive perk in hosting a MEMBERS ONLY PARTY at Busch Stadium that includes games, snacks, Cardinals players signing autographs, and a chance to meet the team mascot.  Members are also provided 2 tickets to a Monday - Thursday home game during the regular season.  Another perk of membership is Cardinals gear that includes an official Kids Club drawstring bag and a  Fredbird Bobble Head Bank.

The Varsity Club provides 2 tickets to a Monday - Thursday home game at Busch Stadium during the regular season plus admission to a specially designated "Varsity Club Day @ The Ballpark" game. Members are provided early access to the "Varsity Club Day" game which features a pre-game program featuring Cardinals Front Office executives and players and a parade around the warning track.  Varsity Club gear includes a flat-bill cap and tablet cover with wireless charger.  Members also receive a coupon book that provides discounts and free perks at Cardinals games and a membership magazine that is mailed to their homes.

One drawback though is that these programs are on the pricier side when it comes to Membership fees for MLB kids clubs.  The Cardinals Kids Club costs $30 plus $2 processing charge & $5 shipping and handling for a total cost of $37.  The Membership fee for the Varsity Club is $35 plus 2 processing fee & $5 shipping and handling for a total cost of $42.

St. Louis was #1 on the 2014 list of Best MLB Kids Clubs and while still a nice option for fans to participate in was downgraded to #3 this year because of what appears to be a slight reduction in the quality of the merchandise provided to the Kids Club's members compared to what was offered last year at the same price.

3) Philadelphia Junior Phillies- the Phillies have a decent Kids Club program that revolves around its 2015 designated player chairperson, Ben Revere.  Members get Revere-branded swag that includes posters and magnets plus a Junior Phillies Club backpack.  There are also other discounts and special events for Junior Phillies.  Joining is just $15 but the caveat is that you have to pick up your membership items at Citizens Bank Park during a Phillies home game.

What really stands out though about the Philadelphia Phillies is that they have a separate fan club just to celebrate their mascot for children 14 called the Phanatic MVP Club which is a  separate program from the Junior Phillies.  For $13 dollars, kids can become a member of the Phanatics MVP Club that includes a Phanatic MVP bobble head, sunglasses, a poster and other fun swag.  Members also get the opportunity to be invited to special events and receive a Phanatic birthday box.  If parents sign their kids up for both clubs they can $3 on the total price of both memberships.  Either membership is a bargain price by itself and the combined rate of $25 is equivalent to the average price of Kids Club membership across the MLB teams.

The Phillies made the list this year for providing quality products at a reasonable price and for their creative use of their mascot in enhancing children's attention and attraction to their team.

2) Cincinnati Red Heads - For $30 members 3 to 12 year olds receive perks that include numerous special events and some of the best swag items of any MLB kids club.  RED HEADS receive an exclusive replica of a Reds batting jersey, a backpack with detachable lunchbox, 2015 ALL STAR Game wristbands, membership card with lanyard, free Bob Evans kids meal, and free admission opportunities to the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum, Cincinnati Zoo, and Cincinnati Museum Centers OMNIMAX Theater.  A Reds Heads email newsletter is also thrown into this membership package for young fans.

The Red Heads consistently provide a quality product to its fans and are a benchmark for MLB Kids Club programs.  Cincinnati didn't make the number one slot this year though because they raised the membership price by $5 while slightly downgrading the quality of the merchandise they provide to its members compared to 2014.  It's still a great program but not as great as it was last year.

 1)  The Chicago Cubs - Clark's Crew really upped their game this year to get the #1 Kids Club in MLB ranking for 2015.  As they promote on their website, Clark's Crew provides "Better Sizes, Cooler Items and More Fun!"to its kids club members than it has in the past.  This year, members get a unique backpack, a replica jersey in a choice of youth sizes to ensure a good fit, a membership card with a fast-pass for Kids Run the Bases at Wrigley Field, an activity book with 32 pages of puzzles and games, a special Jewel-Osco Healthy Eaters Card (valid for a free apple or banana with EVERY visit to a Chicago area Jewel-Osco grocery), an opportunity to attend a Clark's Crew Member Only Player Q&A event during the season, exclusive mailings throughout the year, and other discounts and special experiences throughout the season.  Joining Clark's Crew costs $25 plus shipping and handling for the delivery of the membership kit to your house.

Another impressive option provided to fans by the Cubs, is its Newborn Fan Club.  For $45 this program is perfect for new parents and their newborns.  The Newborn Fan Club includes a customized photo announcing the birth (complete with baby's name, birthday, and birth weight) on the historical landmark of the Wrigley Field Marquee, exclusive Cubs birth certificate to hang in the newborn's nursery, Cubs baby stocking cap to help keep their smallest fans warm, and a Cubs "Rookie of the Year" onesie to show off the loyalty around town.

Because the Cubs are doing an outstanding job of providing Kids Club offerings that enhance the fan experience at a reasonable price in an effort to build the life long loyalty of children to their team they are the World Champs this year for our A Geek Daddy Kids Club competition - now we'll have to see if that carries over to a World Series title on the diamond this season.

Cheering on your favorite sporting team can be a great bonding experience for parents and kids plus a fun way to spend time together as a family.  MLB Kids Clubs are a nice way to introduce your children to the team you cheer for and encourage them to join you as a fan.  If you haven't checked them out for your local team, I encourage you to do so.  CLICK HERE for a listing of all the MLB team's website kids' sections.

Well our favorite team didn't make the list this year, but come Opening Day we'll still be cheering for the guys on the field wearing the Old English D.   What team will you be rooting for this year?