The Detroit Tigers organization is facing renewed scrutiny following reports that a longtime employee was forced to resign after raising concerns about a supervisor. This comes approximately six months after allegations of misconduct toward women involving eight men connected to the team and its broadcast partners surfaced.
Concerns Raised About Workplace Culture
According to a report from The Athletic, the employee sent a roughly 2,000-word email on February 9 to a supervisor detailing concerns about the behavior of Matt Coy, interim vice president of game presentation and fan experience. The email reportedly outlined how Coy was “eroding morale, creating conflicts and making some employees feel uncomfortable.”
Coy is not directly employed by the Tigers, but is instead the vice president of experience for Cuento, a marketing agency contracted by Ilitch Sports + Entertainment (IS+E) and other MLB teams. IS+E pays Cuento for services in game presentation, marketing, and video production.
Investigation and Response
Following the employee’s email, the report states the employee was informed the message was being interpreted as a resignation. IS+E told the Free Press they are “committed to maintaining a professional, respectful work environment” and that they investigated the matter after learning of the concern involving an employee of an outside vendor, promptly notifying the vendor.
Cuento’s co-founder, Wayne Partello, stated the firm takes all concerns seriously and cooperated with IS+E’s investigation, which reportedly did not substantiate claims of inappropriate behavior. Following the concerns raised, IS+E employees were reportedly informed that Coy would begin working remotely.
Previous Allegations
The Athletic reported that Coy has been accused of “unwanted physical contact with female employees by placing his hands on their shoulders” and of “screaming in a woman’s face.” The employee who resigned stated they felt it was their “duty as a leader to raise these concerns” but could “no longer continue in the circumstances and toxic culture” within the organization. Prior to this, six men had left the organization following allegations of misconduct toward women.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the renewed scrutiny of the Detroit Tigers organization?
A report from The Athletic detailing the circumstances surrounding the resignation of a longtime employee who raised concerns about a supervisor prompted the renewed scrutiny.
Who is Matt Coy and what is his role?
Matt Coy is the interim vice president of game presentation and fan experience for the Detroit Tigers, but is an employee of Cuento, a marketing agency contracted by IS+E.
What was the response from Ilitch Sports + Entertainment?
IS+E stated they are committed to a professional work environment, investigated the matter, and promptly notified the vendor when a concern was raised.
As the Tigers prepare for the upcoming season, will the organization’s handling of these concerns impact employee morale and public perception?
