Detroit SportsNet continues to expand its distribution just days before the Detroit Tigers begin their 2026 season.
DirecTV announced Wednesday that it will carry the new regional sports network, giving fans another option to watch Tigers games this year and Detroit Red Wings broadcasts in the future.
The move marks another step in the rollout of Detroit SportsNet, which was recently launched by Ilitch Sports + Entertainment as the new home for both franchises. Major League Baseball ended its relationship with FanDuel Sports Network, leading to the creation of the new platform.
DirecTV customers will have access to Detroit SportsNet through select TV packages. In addition, the network will be available through DirecTV Stream, which offers a streaming alternative for viewers who do not use traditional cable services.
DirecTV Stream includes more than 75 channels, along with unlimited DVR storage and on-demand content. Pricing for the service begins at $89.99 per month, with new users eligible for a free trial period.
The addition of DirecTV comes as Detroit SportsNet continues to finalize distribution agreements across multiple providers. Officials with Ilitch Sports + Entertainment have indicated that more deals are expected to be completed in the coming days as the network prepares for full launch.
For fans who previously watched games through cable, the transition may be seamless. The new channel is expected to appear automatically in TV guides, likely near the same channel placement as previous regional sports networks.
The Tigers open the 2026 season on the road against the San Diego Padres in a three-game series before returning home shortly after. The Red Wings will transition to Detroit SportsNet beginning with the 2026-27 NHL season.
As the season begins, access remains the key question for fans. With DirecTV now in place and additional agreements expected soon, the viewing picture is starting to come together.
