DETROIT – Kara Wolfbauer is quickly becoming a familiar face and voice at Comerica Park, bringing new life to the Detroit Tigers game experience.
At just 24, the St. Clair Shores native has been the in-game host for both Tigers and Detroit Red Wings games for the past two years.
Whether she’s leading the crowd in the sixth-inning hat shuffle, dancing with the mascot Paws, or taking selfies with fans, Wolfbauer’s smile is a big part of the stadium atmosphere.
But at her core, she’s simply a Tigers fan living her dream.
“I grew up a Tigers fan, like the 2000s, 2010s, really coming to games. So, it kind of feels like sometimes I’m a fan again, like a little kid being that fan,” Wolfbauer said.
Her love for baseball runs deep.
She started playing softball and baseball at a young age, playing center field and idolizing former Tigers outfielder Austin Jackson.
“That’s where you feel most alive. Diving for a play just feels so good. Austin Jackson was like my jam back in the day,” Wolfbauer said.
Wolfbauer’s journey with the Tigers began as a child attending games with her family, who often sat in the Tiger Den seats thanks to her aunt and uncle’s business in Eastern Market.
Her mother cherished a photo of young Kara at a game, which remained her screensaver until her passing.
Wolfbauer played at Lakeshore High School and continued at the University of Detroit Mercy, where a television interview caught the attention of Pete Soto, vice president of game presentation for the Tigers and Red Wings.
That interview landed her the in-game host job, which she describes as her true passion.
“My family had me throwing and playing catch when I was like three or four years old. So then, probably actually started playing, I don’t know, probably when I was like six, like, actually playing, playing decently. So, I played till I was 21,” Wolfbauer said.
Her game day routine starts hours before the Tigers arrive, with meetings, rehearsals, and run-throughs of interactive fan activities.
“And then finally, I’ll eat. I’m a big eater. Love to eat. I can’t, I can’t, I can’t, can’t do anything unless I’ve had my food for the day,” Wolfbauer said.
This year, she has also taken on pre- and postgame radio duties, interviewing players and coaches in the clubhouse.
Dan Dickerson, the Tigers’ radio play-by-play announcer since 2002, praises Wolfbauer’s natural personality and presence.
“Her personality comes through. It’s not easy to be in the ballpark and you’re up on this gigantic screen, right? She is so natural. Her personality shines through,” Dickerson said.
Wolfbauer replaced Daniella Bruce as in-game host and has quickly carved out a bigger role on the radio as well.
“She is working her way into a bigger and bigger role on the radio, and that’s a big change from being in park host to doing the post-game interviews. It’s fun to watch. She’s very talented,” Dickerson added.
On game days, Wolfbauer is a fan favorite, often stopped for hugs, selfies, or even a game of rock-paper-scissors with the PA announcer.
She has regular fans, including one with a dog named Penny, whom she hugs as part of her game day superstition.
“I kind of feel like a bridge between them versus what’s on the field. I’m like, the closest step they can get to be able to actually interact,” Wolfbauer said.
When asked what she would say to her younger self sitting in the stands, Wolfbauer laughed.
“First off, I don’t think she’d believe me. I think she would think I’m crazy. Honestly, I thought it was a crazy thing to even think it could be a possibility, like three or four years ago, so the fact that it’s happening now is nuts. Pinch myself every day,” Wolfbauer said.
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