Finding the Dodgers Game Channel DirecTV: What Most Fans Get Wrong

Finding the Dodgers Game Channel DirecTV: What Most Fans Get Wrong

You're sitting there, jersey on, chips ready, and the game is about to start. But you're flipping through the guide and can't find the dodgers game channel directv anywhere. It's basically the ultimate frustration for any Blue Crew fan in Los Angeles or beyond.

The truth is, finding the Dodgers isn't as simple as just memorizing one number. Depending on where you live and what kind of DirecTV setup you have, that channel number shifts like a Shohei Ohtani splitter. Honestly, the "where is the game?" panic is something we've all felt.

Most people think it’s just one channel. It isn't.

The Magic Number: Channel 690

If you are in the Southern California market—think LA, Orange County, San Diego, or even parts of Fresno—Channel 690 is your best friend. This is Spectrum SportsNet LA. It's the "official" home of the Dodgers.

DirectTV carries this as a Regional Sports Network (RSN). But here is the catch: you can't just have the basic "Entertainment" package. You've gotta have the CHOICE package or higher. If you’re on the cheap plan, that screen is going to stay black, and you’ll be stuck following the box score on your phone.

Not in LA? Then 690 might not even show up in your guide.

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Why your zip code matters

Broadcasting rights are a mess. Basically, MLB draws these invisible lines across the country. If you live inside the Dodgers' "home territory," you get SportsNet LA on 690. If you live in, say, Phoenix or New York, that channel is usually blacked out because of those annoying territorial rules.

For the out-of-market crowd, you're looking at MLB EXTRA INNINGS. On DirecTV, these games usually live in the 700-series channels. You'll see a big block of channels from 721 to 749 dedicated to baseball.

When the Dodgers go National

Sometimes, the dodgers game channel directv isn't 690 or the 700s at all. Since the Dodgers are basically the biggest draw in baseball right now, they get flexed to national TV constantly.

When that happens, Spectrum SportsNet LA might not even have the game. You'll need to hunt down these spots:

  • FOX (Channel varies by local affiliate): Usually the Saturday "Game of the Week."
  • FS1 (Channel 219): For those midweek matchups that get picked up nationally.
  • ESPN (Channel 206): Sunday Night Baseball is a staple for the Dodgers.
  • TBS (Channel 247): Especially big during the postseason or Tuesday night "MLB on TBS" windows.
  • MLB Network (Channel 213): They do "Showcase" games pretty often.

It’s kinda annoying to keep track of, but if the game isn't on 690, check 206 or 219 immediately. You've probably missed the first inning already.

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DirecTV Stream vs. Satellite: Is there a difference?

Yes. Sorta.

If you have the traditional satellite dish on your roof, you’re looking at the numbers I just mentioned. If you’re using DirecTV Stream (the version that runs over your Wi-Fi), the channel numbers are actually the same. Channel 690 is still the spot for SportsNet LA.

However, there is a cool perk for Stream users. You can usually just search "Dodgers" in the interface, and it’ll pull up the live broadcast regardless of the channel number. It’s a lot faster than scrolling through 900 channels of infomercials.

The SNLA+ Factor

Recently, there's been a shift. There is this thing called SNLA+. If you are a DirecTV subscriber who already gets SportsNet LA, you can actually use your login to watch on the MLB app. This is huge if you're stuck at a wedding or at work and need to see if Mookie Betts just hit a lead-off homer. You just authenticate at MLB.com/getdodgers.

Dealing with Blackouts

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room. Blackouts.

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If you’re using MLB.TV (the standalone streaming app) and you live in LA, you can’t watch the Dodgers. Period. They want you to buy DirecTV or Spectrum to get that local RSN.

The only way around this on DirecTV is having that CHOICE package. If you’re traveling outside of SoCal, your DirecTV app might still let you watch the local LA feed, but sometimes it gets wonky based on your phone's GPS. Honestly, it's a bit of a gamble.

Pro Tips for the 2026 Season

If you're serious about never missing a pitch, here is what you should actually do:

  1. Check the Guide 24 Hours Early: National networks often "claim" games last minute. Don't assume it's on 690.
  2. Download the DirecTV App: It sounds corporate, but it’s actually the best way to check the schedule on the fly.
  3. Check Channel 213: MLB Network often airs "alternating" games. If the Dodgers are playing the Giants, there’s a 90% chance MLB Network is showing it to the rest of the country.
  4. The 4K Channel (104-106): DirecTV is one of the few places that actually broadcasts some Dodgers games in 4K. If you have the right equipment, check those 100-series channels. It looks incredible.

To get started right now, grab your remote and hit the "C" button (the blue one). This usually brings up the Sports Search on most DirecTV boxes. Type in "Dodgers," and it will show you exactly what channel the game is on today, whether it's the local RSN, a national broadcast, or a 4K special.

Don't wait until the first pitch to realize your package doesn't include the right channel—log into your DirecTV account today and verify you have the CHOICE package so you're locked in for the season.