ML Elrick’s stil off enjoying the breathtaking views of Lake Como, Italy, and Shawn Windsor out in Chicagoland covering Big Ten Media Days, the mic is passed for a high-energy deep dive into Detroit Tigers fandom.Joining the show today is Detroit’s ultimate positive energy generator: Teebs! aka @skubalknows.

STRAIGHT DOPE: Who is Teebs? The Backstory of a Superfan

• From the Classroom to Comerica: Surprising to some, Teebs is a middle school gym teacher (formerly math). He brings the exact same high-octane, ultra-positive energy to his students that he brings to the front row behind the dugout.
• How It All Started: Born out of the quiet, social-distancing crowds of 2021, Teebs started sitting right behind the dugout. While others were booing late-career struggles, Teebs was clapping—catching the eye of Kirk Gibson, local media, and the players themselves.
• The Strategy: Outfitted in roughly 50 to 100 jerseys (layered up like the Michelin Man to peel them off according to the batting lineup) and packed with hand-made signs, Teebs explains how 90% of baseball is mental—and why generating good vibes for players is his primary mission.

2. The Tarik Skubal Trade Talk & Union Reality

• Parasocial or Pure Loyalty? Teebs clears up his connection to Tigers ace Tarik Skubal. From receiving game-used wristbands during Skubal’s injury rehab to exchanging dugout smiles, Teebs believes Skubal genuinely cares about Detroit and his teammates.
• The Trade Deadline Crunch: With the August deadline looming, Teebs gives a inside look from his dugout seat, placing the odds of Skubal re-signing in Detroit at 50/50. He discusses Skubal’s role as a union representative, the Tigers’ offensive lineup needs, and sitting with the Illitch family during home games.
• Playoff Mentality: Why keeping Skubal gives Detroit its best shot at a deep October run right now.

GEEK OF THE WEEK

• Leody Taveras (Baltimore Orioles): While groundskeepers tried to trap the Comerica Park squirrel properly, Taveras decided to take matters into his own hands—scooping up the squirrel with his glove and tossing it into the air. For throwing a wild animal on live TV instead of grabbing a bigger towel, Taveras takes home this week’s title.

ROOM 7609Continuing ML’s theme of songs that sound better live than in the studio:

• Jack White – “Fell in Love with a Girl” (Live at Pine Knob, July 25): Fresh off running into Teebs at Pine Knob over the weekend, the show highlights Detroit’s modern-day rock icon. While BranDon admits to a little “Seven Nation Army” fatigue, Jack White’s live rendition of this White Stripes breakthrough hit proves why his concerts feel like a holy experience.

SPONSORS & PROMOTIONS

• Luke Nowacki at Pinnacle Wealth Strategies (Omaic Wealth): Planning for the future, building your wealth, or funding a 529 plan for the next 17 years? Get yourself a crumb of the pie. Contact Luke Nowacki at 248-663-4748.
• Detroit City FC (DCFC): Head out to Keyworth Stadium for the next match or catch them on the road. Visit DetCityFC.com/tickets and use promo code SOUL for special deals on tickets.
• Cadieux Cafe: Feather bowling, steamed mussels, Belgian beers, and live music. Check out their full lineup at CadieuxCafe.com.

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