When the Detroit Tigers open their 2012 season on Thursday, a familiar face will greet them with the ceremonial first pitch. Tigers great Al Kaline will throw out the first pitch prior to the Tigers' game against the Red Sox.
Kaline played first base and outfield for the Tigers from 1953 to 1974. During his 22 seasons with the Tigers, the only major league team he ever played for, Kaline made the All-Star team 15 times. He was voted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1980.
Prior the game, the Tigers will also hoist the American League Central Division championship flag. American Idol finalist Haley Reinhart will sing the national anthem, followed by a military flyover from Selfridge Air National Guard base.
The game starts at 1:05 p.m. Gates open at 10:30 a.m.
For more on the Detroit Tigers, check out Bless You Boys. For more on Major League Baseball, check out Baseball Nation.