Detroit R/TV: Kirk Gibson Setps Away From MLB Tigers Broadcast Team

Kirk Gibson

Kirk Gibson, a Detroit Tigers legend and long-time broadcaster, has stepped away from his role in the team's TV broadcast booth ahead of the 2025 season. 

The announcement was made in a joint statement from Gibson, the Tigers, and FanDuel Sports Network Detroit. Gibson, who has been battling Parkinson’s disease since his diagnosis in 2015, will no longer serve as a contributing analyst but will continue his work with the Tigers as a special assistant to the front office.

Gibson’s broadcasting tenure with the Tigers spans 15 years across two stints: 1998-2002 and 2015-2024. 

He returned to the booth in 2015 after managing the Arizona Diamondbacks (2010-2014) and took on a part-time role that evolved into a regular analyst position by 2019. His departure from broadcasting is driven by a shift in focus toward his health and his advocacy work through the Kirk Gibson Foundation.

In his statement, Gibson emphasized that this transition is not a slowdown but a redirection of energy toward making a difference for those with Parkinson’s. He highlighted the upcoming opening of the Kirk Gibson Center for Parkinson’s Wellness in Farmington Hills, Michigan, set for fall 2025. This first-of-its-kind facility in the state will offer free activity-based programs for Parkinson’s patients, families, and caregivers.

The Tigers and FanDuel praised Gibson’s contributions, noting his “grit, tenacity, and dedication” as a player, coach, manager, and broadcaster over four decades with the organization. They affirmed his enduring influence on the team and Detroit community, pledging continued support for his foundation’s efforts. Gibson, 67, is best remembered for his playing career, including a key role in the Tigers’ 1984 World Series win and his iconic 1988 World Series walk-off home run with the Los Angeles Dodgers. His exit from the booth closes a chapter but keeps him tied to the Tigers in a meaningful capacity.

The decision has sparked some debate. Former broadcaster Matt Shepard suggested on X that Gibson’s exit might not have been entirely voluntary, claiming it wasn’t Gibson’s choice and criticizing the Tigers. However, Gibson’s own statement focuses on his health and foundation work, with no indication of discord. The Tigers’ 2025 broadcast team will now feature primary analysts Andy Dirks and Dan Petry, with Todd Jones and Carlos Peña contributing occasionally, alongside play-by-play announcer Jason Benetti.