Detroit Tigers Broadcast Rights: A New Era with Detroit SportsNet
The long-awaited resolution to the Great Tigers TV Channel Search of 2026 is here! Detroit Tigers fans can rejoice as their games will now be broadcast on the newly formed Detroit SportsNet, available through major cable carriers across Michigan. This announcement comes just under 24 hours before the Tigers kick off their 2026 season with an exciting matchup against the San Diego Padres on Thursday, March 26th, at 4:10 p.m. on the road.
From FanDuel to Detroit SportsNet: What Happened?
The transition to Detroit SportsNet comes after Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, owners of both the Tigers and Detroit Red Wings, ended their contract with Main Street Sports Group (parent company of FanDuel Sports Network Detroit) earlier this year. Concerns surrounding the broadcasting company’s bankruptcy prompted the creation of Detroit SportsNet to ensure consistent and reliable coverage of their teams.
Detroit SportsNet has already been streaming select Tigers games during spring training, but the full launch with cable carriers marks a significant step forward. The Red Wings will follow suit, transitioning to Detroit SportsNet after the conclusion of their 2025-26 season in mid-April. The Detroit Pistons will remain on FanDuel through the end of the regular season, with playoff games airing on national networks.
How to Watch Tigers vs Padres and Beyond
Previously, Tigers games were available via a streaming package on MLB.TV ($19.99/month or $189.99/year). However, the focus has shifted to securing cable carrier agreements to reach a wider audience. Fans can now access Detroit SportsNet for approximately $19.99 per month or $189.99 annually – a potential savings of around $50 compared to the MLB.TV subscription.
Here’s where to find more information:
Key Details About Detroit SportsNet
- Broadcasts: Detroit SportsNet will carry approximately 140 broadcasts this season.
- National Coverage: The Tigers will also have at least 16 games broadcast nationally on networks like Fox, NBC (and Peacock), and TBS.
- MLB’s New Partnerships: Netflix has also joined MLB this season, but their deal focuses on special event games like the Yankees-Giants Opening Day game, the Home Run Derby, and the “Field of Dreams” game.
- Farewell to FanDuel: Tigers games are no longer available on FanDuel Sports Network. Once the Red Wings season ends, Ilitch Sports + Entertainment will have no further association with FanDuel.
- Streaming Options: Fans will need separate subscriptions for Detroit SportsNet, the MLB app (for Tigers streaming), and a future app for Red Wings streaming.
The Broadcast Team Remains the Same
Good news for fans of the current broadcast team! Ken Daniels and Mickey Redmond will continue to call Red Wings games, while Jason Benetti (and Dan Dickerson) alongside analysts Andy Dirks and Dan Petry will handle Tigers broadcasts. Reporters Daniella Bruce and Logan Reever will also continue to provide coverage for both teams.
This is a developing story, and we’ll continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
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