Tigers Terminate TV Contract Amid FanDuel Sports Network Uncertainty
Amid ongoing financial challenges within the regional sports network industry, Major League Baseball’s (MLB) Tigers have opted to terminate their television contract with FanDuel Sports Network. This decision affects nine MLB teams that have been affiliated with the network.
Background on FanDuel Sports Network
FanDuel Sports Network’s parent company, Main Street Sports Group, is facing significant financial turmoil. The organization has indicated that it may cease operations by 2026 if a buyer is not found. Earlier, it emerged from bankruptcy in 2025 and continues to broadcast games for various MLB, NHL, and NBA teams, including the Red Wings and Pistons. However, the network has reportedly missed payments to some MLB franchises recently.
Tigers’ Strategic Shift
While the Tigers have not officially commented on the situation, they have been exploring alternative broadcasting options. These preparations may include an increased in-house control of broadcasts and transitioning play-by-play commentator Jason Benetti to a team employee. By opting out of their recent contract, the Tigers position themselves for flexibility in 2026, should Main Street Sports Group file for bankruptcy again.
Potential Broadcasting Alternatives
The Tigers are evaluating their options, which could lead to:
- Increased over-the-air telecasts
- Streaming on MLB’s platform
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred emphasized the league’s commitment to ensure fans have access to games, regardless of Main Street’s status. He stated, “No matter what happens, whether it’s Main Street or MLB media, fans are going to have the games.”
The Broader Impact on the Industry
The regional sports network sector has faced decline as more fans shift away from traditional cable services to streaming platforms. Although FanDuel Sports Network has enhanced its streaming offerings with partners like Amazon Prime, this strategy has not mitigated financial losses.
In previous years, the Tigers had considered leaving the network after the 2024 season but ultimately returned for 2025 at a significantly reduced rights fee. While the precise value of the Tigers’ television rights fee remains undisclosed, estimates suggest it exceeded $50 million annually about a decade ago. This revenue source has played a vital role in funding the team’s payroll.
Future Prospects
If the Tigers opt to shift to MLB’s broadcasting framework, it may provide necessary stability. However, it is unlikely to achieve the financial success of past agreements in the short term. The current state of the regional sports network industry remains precarious, with concerns that Main Street Sports Group may cease operations after the ongoing NHL and NBA seasons, although a midseason shutdown could also occur.
Main Street Sports Group has been in search of a buyer. London-based streaming service DAZN was reported as a potential buyer, but negotiations appear to have stalled. Fubo, another paid-TV streaming service, has recently emerged as a possible buyer, as reported by Sports Business Journal.
