December 9, 2020: The Detroit Tigers announced today the West Michigan Whitecaps are in line for a promotion of sorts, becoming the big-league club's Advanced-A affiliate beginning in 2021, after spending 24 seasons as their Low A designee. The move comes as part of Major League Baseball's restructuring of the Minor League Baseball player development system. "We're thrilled for our fanbase," said Joe Chamberlin, CEO of the West Michigan Whitecaps. "It means West Michigan will see a higher level of baseball talent which translates to the opportunity to see more Detroit Tigers prospects, along with Midwest League rival prospects, and more fun for the fans!" Bettegail Shively, '75, is proud to say they are a founding partner in this business and was there when the stadium was built. At that time Shively's role was Human Resources in onboarding the inauguration year staff.