Tigers Modernize Comerica Park With Field Update; Skubal Supports Removal of Historic Keyhole Feature

As the Detroit Tigers conclude their opening homestand of the season, players and fans alike are noticing subtle yet meaningful changes to the field at Comerica Park. Most notably, the team has covered the iconic dirt path — known as the “keyhole” — that once stretched from the pitcher’s mound to home plate, replacing it with grass for a more contemporary look and consistent playing experience.

The decision marks the end of a nostalgic feature that dated back to early baseball traditions but had become a rare sight in today’s game. Detroit was the last team in Major League Baseball to retain the keyhole, which had been in place since the stadium opened in 2000.

Tigers ace Tarik Skubal, reigning AL Cy Young Award winner and pitching Triple Crown champion, welcomed the change.

“Honestly, I’m glad it’s gone,” Skubal said ahead of Wednesday’s game against the Yankees. “I know fans might’ve seen it as a cool throwback, but visually, it was pretty distracting. Every other park in the league has a clean look from the mound — this just brings us in line with the rest.”

Skubal also voiced his support for other improvements made at the ballpark, including updates to the premium seating area behind home plate. The Tigers removed an outdated tunnel and installed high-tech seats with heating and cooling options.

“It just feels cleaner back there now,” Skubal added. “They’ve done a great job.”

The changes followed a round of offseason consultations in which the team sought feedback from players. While Skubal provided strong input, reactions from teammates varied.

Reliever Will Vest remained indifferent: “It didn’t really affect me much. Either way, I’m good.”

Fellow pitcher Tyler Holton echoed a similar sentiment, saying his focus remains locked on the catcher’s mitt regardless of field details. “If you’re noticing things like that mid-game, your attention might be in the wrong place,” Holton quipped.

Outfielder Riley Greene, meanwhile, admitted he hadn’t noticed the change at all until a reporter mentioned it. “I guess I just never looked down,” Greene laughed. “Someone said it was gone and I was like, ‘Cool.’ I still haven’t really noticed it.”

While opinions differ on its significance, the removal of the keyhole reflects the Tigers’ broader commitment to aligning with modern ballpark standards while also prioritizing player performance and fan comfort.