Tigers push FSD to top prime-time ratings in Detroit

Detroit -- The Tigers' are going to be sitting pretty in negotiations when their current radio and TV contracts are up in the coming couple years.

They continue to be a cash cow for WXYT 97.1 and Fox Sports Detroit. FSD on Thursday again was crowned the king of prime-time ratings in the Detroit market, averaging 156,000 viewers during the 7-11 p.m. time slot during the 2014 regular season. That was good for a 8.59 household rating, clobbering runner-up WDIV, the NBC affiliate, which drew a 5.05. That's a gap of 70 percent.

The Tigers also had the second-highest ratings for all of MLB, at 7.72, behind only the Cardinals, who drew a 7.89.

WXYZ (ABC) was third in Detroit at a 4.50, followed by WJBK (Fox) at 4.40 and WWJ (CBS) at 3.77.

The most-watched Tigers game was the 4-3 victory on Opening Day against the Royals. That game was also simulcast on Metro Detroit's local Fox affiliate.

"The passion of Detroit fans is incredible," said Greg Hammaren, senior vice president and general manager for FSD. "Tigers fans, far and wide, love this team."

The Tigers face the Baltimore Orioles Thursday night at 5:30 p.m. to open the ALDS. Fox Sports Detroit will provide Tigers Live Postseason coverage following every game.

FSD's game coverage is complete for the season, but it will host postgame shows for every playoff game.

tpaul@detroitnews.com

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