Michigan — Ahead of his final game as a member of the Detroit Tigers and on the last day of his Hall of Fame career, Miguel Cabrera was honored with a proclamation by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. The proclamation was part of a day of honors for Cabrera after a two-decades long career.
Today we honor Tigers legend Miguel Cabrera as he plays his last game,” said Governor Whitmer. “Let’s give it up one last time for one of the best ball players to ever wear the Old English D. It’s been a helluva ride. Thanks for all the memories, Miggy! Next stop… Cooperstown.!”
The release from the Office of the Governor pointed out that in 2007, Miguel Cabrera joined the Detroit Tigers where his career continued to flourish earning awards and breaking records. Cabrera won American League Most Valuable Player twice, made seven-straight All-Star appearances, and remains the only player in the last 56 years to win the Triple Crown in either league. Additionally, Cabrera isn’t just a member of both the 3,000 hits and 500 home run clubs, he’s one of only three players all time to do both while adding 600 doubles.
The proclamation by the Governor included mentions of Cabrera’s work off the field. Miguel Cabrera’s contributions extend beyond baseball through his philanthropy and involvement in his community. Cabrera joined Governor Whitmer to promote COVID-19 vaccinations in Michigan, serving as co-chair of the Protect Michigan Commission. Additionally, in 2007, he established the Miguel Cabrera Foundation which promotes the practice of active sports and provides support for education and health issues.
The proclamation reads:
October 1, 2023: Miguel “Miggy” Cabrera Day
October 01, 2023
WHEREAS, Miguel Cabrera is a baseball legend, and his extraordinary talents and contributions to the sport have earned him a special place in the hearts of Michiganders and baseball fans around the world; and,
WHEREAS, Miguel Cabrera, or “Miggy” as he’s affectionally known by Tigers fans, emerged as one of the most sought-after baseball prospects in South America during his teenage years, ultimately signing with the Florida Marlins at the age of 16; and,
WHEREAS, Miguel Cabrera’s exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to the game of baseball continued to shine through as he established himself as one of the best power hitters in baseball, consistently earning All-Star selections, and showcasing his prowess as an elite hitter; and,
WHEREAS, Miguel Cabrera joined the Detroit Tigers in 2007, emerging as one of the most outstanding players in the history of baseball, earning accolades and breaking records; and,
WHEREAS, Miguel Cabrera achieved remarkable milestones, including winning the American League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 2012 and 2013 and becoming the first major league player in 45 years to win the batting Triple Crown by leading the league in batting average (.330), home runs (44), and RBIs (139); and,
WHEREAS, Miguel Cabrera’s 500th career home run in 2021 and his 3,000th career hit in 2022 further solidified his status as a baseball legend and an enduring symbol of excellence; and,
WHEREAS, Miguel Cabrera’s resilience and dedication to the sport have been an inspiration to countless fans, and his contributions to the Detroit Tigers and the state of Michigan have been immeasurable; and,
WHEREAS, Miguel Cabrera’s contributions extend beyond the diamond through his community involvement and philanthropy. Supporting youth sports, humanitarian efforts in Haiti, educational scholarships, and joining Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to promote COVID-19 vaccinations in Michigan are just a few examples of Miguel Cabrera’s outstanding dedication to community, education, and public health; and,
WHEREAS, it is fitting to recognize and celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of Miguel Cabrera on the day of his last home game as a Detroit Tiger;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 1, 2023, as Miguel “Miggy” Cabrera Day in Michigan. On this day, Michiganders are encouraged to celebrate Miggy’s achievements and contributions to our state.
