The future of sports broadcasting is here, and it's a game-changer! But for Detroit sports fans, the question is: how will this affect your viewing experience?
Detroit's sports scene is undergoing a major shift in 2026, as the Tigers and Red Wings prepare to leave FanDuel Sports Network Detroit and embark on a new broadcasting journey. And here's where it gets interesting: the Tigers' television plans are now coming into sharper focus, with a new direct-to-consumer streaming service under the MLB Media banner.
Starting this week, fans can sign up for the Tigers' streaming subscription, with pricing set at $19.99 per month or $189.99 annually for in-market viewers in Michigan and nearby states. This move comes as the team parts ways with FanDuel, whose parent company is facing an uncertain future.
But here's where it gets controversial: The Tigers' new streaming home will be called Detroit SportsNet, and it will eventually include the Red Wings, owned by the same Ilitches family. This transition will see the Red Wings move to MLB Media distribution for the 2026-27 season, with a singular subscription granting access to both teams' games. But what does this mean for the Pistons, who are also on FanDuel Sports Network Detroit?
Detroit SportsNet will also be available on traditional cable as a standalone channel, launching by Tigers Opening Day on March 26. This channel will likely have an additional fee, similar to the FanDuel pricing structure. The content will primarily consist of games and pre/post-game shows, along with the Tigers' podcast featuring Jason Benetti and Dan Dickerson.
As for the on-air talent, the Tigers' and Red Wings' broadcast teams will remain intact, with MLB Media producing Tigers' games and Ilitch Sports & Entertainment handling the Red Wings' broadcasts from the 2026-27 season. MLB Media is expanding its reach, producing and distributing content for at least 14 teams in 2026, including the Tigers-Red Wings package, its first hockey partnership.
This shift marks a significant change from the cable RSNs that have dominated since the 1980s, such as PASS and Fox Sports Detroit. Recent years have seen multiple sales and naming rights deals, with the teams landing on FanDuel Sports Network Detroit in 2025, despite financial challenges. Now, with FanDuel's parent company in financial turmoil, the Tigers and Red Wings are taking control of their broadcasting destiny.
For out-of-market fans, Tigers games will still be available on MLB.TV for a monthly or seasonal fee. Additionally, a small selection of games will be aired on free, over-the-air television during the 2026 season, with details to be announced soon. The Tigers also have a presence on national TV and streaming, with at least 16 games scheduled this season.
So, Detroit sports enthusiasts, are you ready for this new era of sports broadcasting? What are your thoughts on the Tigers' and Red Wings' move to MLB Media? And what do you think the future holds for the Pistons' TV broadcast plans? Share your opinions in the comments below, and let's discuss the evolving landscape of sports viewing!
