Get ready for a game-changer in Detroit sports broadcasting! A bold new partnership is about to revolutionize how you watch your favorite teams.
Ilitch Sports + Entertainment has just announced a groundbreaking deal with Major League Baseball (MLB). This partnership will bring a fresh approach to broadcasting for both the Detroit Tigers and the Detroit Red Wings, starting with the 2026 MLB season and the 2026-27 NHL season, respectively.
But here's where it gets controversial... This move is a response to the recent uncertainty in the regional sports broadcasting industry. By partnering with MLB, Ilitch Sports + Entertainment aims to provide fans with a consistent, year-round platform to access their beloved teams' games and content. Imagine having the freedom to watch whenever and wherever you want, all while enjoying a reliable streaming experience.
For years, fans within the Clubs' home television territory have relied on the same options for watching Tigers and Red Wings games. Rest assured, this partnership won't change that. You'll still have access to the games through your cable or satellite package, or by streaming. The only difference? An even better, more streamlined experience.
Let's dive into the specifics for each team:
Detroit Tigers
MLB will now be responsible for producing and distributing Tigers games. This includes leading broadcast production, negotiating distribution agreements, and managing a direct-to-consumer streaming service. With a talented on-air team led by Jason Benetti and Dan Dickerson for play-by-play, and analysts Andy Dirks and Dan Petry, Detroit's broadcasts are considered among the best in baseball. And the good news is, this dream team is expected to return for the 2026 season.
This partnership comes at a time when the Tigers are experiencing remarkable growth in viewership. In 2025, they saw a 121% increase in per-game streamers and a 101% increase in per-game household impressions. Only five other U.S.-based teams had higher per-game viewership last season, and only two had a higher average rating. Talk about a winning formula!
Detroit Red Wings
The Red Wings will join this partnership after the 2025-26 NHL season. While Ilitch Sports + Entertainment takes over broadcast production duties, MLB will lend a helping hand with production processes. You can expect to continue enjoying Red Wings coverage on the FanDuel sports network through the end of this season, with more details about the 2026-27 season to be announced soon.
The iconic duo of Ken Daniels and Mickey Redmond, voted as the top NHL broadcast in back-to-back seasons (2024-25), will continue to lead Red Wings telecasts for the foreseeable future. Future production planning will take place after the conclusion of the 2025-26 season.
This partnership is a win-win for fans, providing a consistent and reliable way to watch their favorite teams. It's an exciting development that promises to enhance the fan experience. So, what do you think? Are you ready to embrace this new era of Detroit sports broadcasting? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
