How to Watch Tigers vs. Boston Red Sox on Friday: TV Channel, Start Time
The Detroit Tigers and the Boston Red Sox will kick off a four-game series at Fenway Park in Boston on Friday night, and baseball fans are eager for another exciting matchup. However, if you’re planning to catch the game, be aware that it will not be available on Detroit SportsNet.
Where Can I Watch the Tigers-Red Sox Game on Friday Night?
The series opener between the Tigers and Red Sox on Friday, April 17, will be broadcast on Apple TV. This requires a paid subscription, though new customers can take advantage of a seven-day free trial.
The first pitch is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. ET, with play-by-play commentator Wayne Randazzo and analyst Dontrelle Willis—former Tigers pitcher—on the call. Heidi Watney will provide sideline reporting, and former major-league umpires Ted Barrett and Brian Gorman will be featured to break down any umpire or rules issues during the broadcast. However, it’s doubtful they’ll be dealing with anything as complex as Thursday’s Tigers-Kansas City Royals game.
How Often Will the Tigers Be on National TV in 2026?
Friday’s game marks the Tigers’ second national appearance of the 2026 season, following their “Sunday Night Baseball” appearance on Peacock on Easter Sunday. That game, which garnered significant attention due to Justin Verlander’s anticipated return to Detroit, did not go as planned due to Verlander’s absence from the mound.
The Tigers are scheduled for at least 16 national TV or streaming appearances this season, with over 140 games available on Detroit SportsNet. Fans can also tune in for the last three games of the Red Sox series. Additionally, the entire series will be broadcast on 97.1 FM.
Who Is Starting for the Tigers Against the Red Sox on Friday Night?
In the series opener, Detroit will send Casey Mize to the mound, while Boston will counter with Ranger Suarez, who signed a five-year, $140 million free-agent contract with the Red Sox this past winter.
For a full rundown of the probable pitchers for the series, click [here].
How Did the Tigers Fare Against the Red Sox in 2025?
In the 2025 season, the Tigers finished with a 4-2 record against the Red Sox. One of the most notable victories came in the second-to-last game of the regular season when the Tigers clinched a postseason spot with a 4-2 win at Fenway Park.
Are Joey Cora and Alex Cora Related?
Yes, they are! Tigers’ third-base coach Joey Cora, who had an eventful series against the Royals, is the older brother of Red Sox manager Alex Cora. Joey is 60 years old, while Alex is 50.
Get ready for an exciting night of baseball, and don’t forget to tune in for the Tigers’ first national appearance in 2026 on Apple TV!
