DETROIT -- While the Tigers continue their rebuilding work on the field, they could have a new build-up in store for their broadcast product. Ilitch Holdings acknowledged in a Thursday morning press release that it is exploring the creation of a new regional sports network for the Ilitch-owned Tigers and Red Wings.
The potential move could shake up the Detroit television market while putting the Tigers in the same group as other Major League clubs that have either created or invested in their own television outlet.
The exploratory process will begin immediately, according to the release, but no deadline is set for a decision.
"Fox Sports Detroit is a great partner, and we look forward to discussing renewal and extension possibilities," said Chris Granger, group president for sports and entertainment for the Ilitch Holdings, in a statement. "At the same time, we have two perennially highly-rated and historic franchises, which provide compelling year-round content and programming. As such, we feel our organization is uniquely positioned to explore the launch of what we believe could be a highly successful regional sports network."
Tigers television broadcasts have been in the news the past couple months following the change in announcers. Mario Impemba and Rod Allen were not brought back, according to sources, following a press-box incident in August, leaving Fox Sports Detroit looking for a new voice.
The station is also in the midst of an ownership change. When The Walt Disney Company's acquisition of 21st Century Fox's entertainment assets received Justice Department review this past summer, Disney agreed to sell off 22 Fox Sports regional networks as a condition of the deal.
A new broadcast outlet in Detroit would obviously mark a much larger shift. Fox Sports Detroit has been the primary home for Tigers telecasts since 1998. The two sides signed a long-term agreement in 2008 that is still in effect.
Tigers ownership has had an ownership stake in their club's broadcasts before. Tom Monaghan purchased PASS Sports in the mid-1980s while he owned the Tigers. Monaghan later sold the Tigers and the network separately.
Creating a new sports network, while a new path in Detroit, has been a trend in baseball for years. Yankees Entertainment and Sports (YES) Network was created in 2002 and remains the primary outlet for Yankees local broadcasts, though the Yankees sold off majority interest in 2014. The Mets launched SportsNet New York (SNY) in 2006 as its primary broadcaster. The Dodgers partnered with Charter Communications to create SportsNet LA in 2014. The Orioles and Nationals are co-owners in the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network (MASN).
Other clubs or club owners with reported stakes in regional sports networks include the Red Sox, Blue Jays, Mariners, Phillies, Giants, Cubs, White Sox and Padres.
The Indians (through their ownership), Royals and Twins have also had their own regional sports networks at one time. SportsTime Ohio in Cleveland became part of the Fox Sports Ohio family, while the Twins and Royals currently have broadcast deals with their respective Fox Sports regional networks.
In Detroit's case, Ilitch's ownership of the Tigers and Red Wings brings the immediate potential of two sports seasons' worth of programming, the combination of which would run year-round.
"As leaders in the rapidly evolving sports and entertainment industry, the creation of a new network would be a natural business extension for our organization," Granger said. "Live sports remain some of the most sought-after content on television and across digital platforms. We look forward to exploring how a new network could be of a positive benefit to our teams, fans and community."
The exploration of a regional sports network also reinforces recent statements from Tigers chairman and CEO Christopher Ilitch that his family remains committed to keeping the club. The two teams, along with Comerica Park and Little Caesars Arena, are key cogs in The District Detroit development that has been an Ilitch focus for the past few years. Little Caesars Arena opened last year and serves as the home of the Red Wings and Pistons.