Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, owners of both the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Red Wings, has unveiled Detroit SportsNet, a new regional sports network dedicated to broadcasting their games.[1][2] This move comes amid industry-wide disruptions in regional sports broadcasting. The network promises cable, satellite, and in-market streaming access for fans throughout Michigan.
Detroit SportsNet arrives at a pivotal time for Detroit sports fans. With MLB spring training underway and the NHL regular season progressing, the launch ensures continuity for local game coverage. It positions Ilitch to control its own destiny after challenges with previous partners.[3]
The road to Detroit SportsNet
The creation of Detroit SportsNet stems from turmoil in the regional sports network landscape. The Tigers and other teams ended their agreements with Main Street Sports Group, operators of Bally Sports and FanDuel Sports Network Detroit, over missed rights payments.[1] This fallout left teams seeking stable alternatives.
Last month, the Tigers turned to Major League Baseball for production and distribution of their local broadcasts this season. The Red Wings followed suit for their games. This MLB partnership powers Detroit SportsNet from the start.[2]
Fans experienced uncertainty during the transition. Red Wings games continue on FanDuel Sports Network Detroit through the 2025-26 season’s end. Tigers broadcasts shift immediately to the new platform.
The industry shift reflects broader trends. Diamond Sports Group’s bankruptcy and payment issues have pushed teams toward direct-to-consumer models. Ilitch’s initiative mirrors strategies by other franchises.
Detroit SportsNet represents self-reliance. By launching their own network, the Tigers and Red Wings avoid future payment risks.
Broadcast plans for Tigers and Red Wings
Detroit SportsNet kicks off with all locally televised Tigers games in 2026. Fans can watch via the MLB app, excluding national exclusives. The broadcast team features Jason Benetti and Dan Dickerson on play-by-play, with analysts Andy Dirks and Dan Petry.[2]
Red Wings coverage arrives in the 2026-27 season. Ken Daniels and Mickey Redmond will lead the telecasts. Current-season games remain unchanged on FanDuel Sports Network Detroit.[4]
Streaming emphasizes accessibility. In-market viewers access games live or on-demand through the MLB app for Tigers. Red Wings streaming details will follow this summer.
Cable and satellite carriage is in progress. Providers across Michigan will carry the channel once deals finalize. A provider list and channel numbers are forthcoming.
This dual-team approach unifies viewing under one banner. Year-round sports action awaits subscribers.
Subscription options and promotions
Detroit SportsNet offers straightforward packages. The annual plan costs $189.99, saving over 20% compared to monthly billing. Monthly access is $19.99.[3]
- Detroit SportsNet Annual ($189.99): Covers Tigers 2026 season and Red Wings 2026-27. Auto-renews annually. Promo: Free Tigers access until April 1 if subscribed by March 22.
- Detroit SportsNet Monthly ($19.99): Flexible month-to-month for both teams’ seasons. Cancels anytime.
Blackouts apply based on national games and location. Subscriptions verify eligibility by zip code for Tigers and Red Wings territories. Subscribe via MLB.com.[3]
The introductory offer sweetens the deal. New users get Opening Day in San Diego and early regular-season Tigers games at no charge. Red Wings access activates next season for annual holders.
Traditional TV fans await carriage announcements. Streaming-first appeals to cord-cutters.
What this means for Detroit fans
Fans gain reliable access without past disruptions. Unified coverage simplifies following both teams. Streaming via the MLB app supports multiple devices.
Production quality stays high with MLB backing. Familiar voices like Benetti and Daniels ensure engaging broadcasts.
Challenges remain. Cable negotiations could delay linear TV rollout. Streamers must navigate blackouts.
Long-term, Detroit SportsNet bolsters Ilitch’s portfolio. It could expand to more content, like pre/postgame shows.
A new era for Hockeytown and baseball
Detroit SportsNet stabilizes local broadcasts for the Tigers and Red Wings. Fans now have clear paths to games, blending tradition with modern streaming.[4]
This launch signals resilience amid RSN woes. As the Red Wings’ site notes, it delivers year-round access starting next season.
Detroit sports enters a promising chapter. Expect strong viewership as teams chase playoffs. What it means for the championship: Enhanced fan engagement could fuel on-ice success.
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Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.