Detroit ― Is the Tigers’ home ballpark about to get a new name in 2026?

It’s a possibility, though not a certainty, amid the major news from the financial world Monday morning, when Fifth Third Bancorp announced that it was preparing to purchase Comerica in a $10.9 billion deal. The acquisition is expected to close early in 2026, before Opening Day of the Major League Baseball season.

Comerica Bank, founded as the Detroit Savings Fund in the 1800s and headquartered in Detroit until moving to Dallas in 2007, has held the naming rights of the Tigers’ stadium, Comerica Park, since it opened in 2000. That deal marked the first stadium naming rights in franchise history.

Two years before the Tigers’ ballpark opened, Comerica Bank signed a 30-year, $66 million deal with the Tigers for the naming rights, and that was to run through 2029. In 2018, that deal was extended by five years, through 2034.

Before the 2025 season, the Tigers increased the amount and visibility of the Comerica Park signage at the stadium, adding it to the top of the big scoreboard in left field and behind home plate, as well.

“Fifth Third and Comerica share a deep commitment to the communities we serve, including Detroit. Comerica Park is a beloved landmark with a rich history, and we recognize its significance to Tigers fans and the city,” Fifth Third and Comerica said in a joint statement to The News on Monday. “As we move forward with the merger, we remain focused on honoring the legacy of both institutions and continuing to support the places and partnerships that matter most to our customers and communities.

“While it’s too early to discuss any potential changes to facility names, we are committed to thoughtful decisions that reflect our shared values and long-standing community ties.”

It’s worth noting, Fifth Third has a history of baseball stadium naming rights, as well. The Toledo Mud Hens, the Tigers’ Triple-A affiliate, play in Fifth Third Field, and the West Michigan Whitecaps, the Tigers’ Single-A affiliate, used to play in Fifth Third Ballpark. That stadium now is called LMCU Ballpark.

Representatives from the Tigers’ parent company, Ilitch Sports & Entertainment, declined to comment Monday.

The expected acquisition of Comerica Bank would make Fifth Third Bancorp the ninth-largest bank in the country.

tpaul@detroitnews.com

@tonypaul1984

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