Tigers shortstop named No. 2 prospect for second consecutive season

While Detroit Tigers fans await the results of Tarik Skubal's ongoing arbitration negotiations, there is something to be excited about. 

Shortstop Kevin McGonigle, drafted 37th overall in 2023 by the Tigers, was named the No. 2 prospect in baseball by MLB Pipeline. Ranked ahead of the 21-year-old is shortstop Konnor Griffin of the Pittsburgh Pirates. 

"McGonigle’s hit tool has placed him on the map in a big way, making him the top piece in a talent-rich Tigers system," his MLB Pipeline bio reads. 

McGonigle spent time at three different minor league levels in 2025, mostly Double-A Erie. He hit .254/.369/.550 with 12 home runs in 46 games. 

When Tigers fans can expect to see McGonigle in the Major Leagues 

Detroit may call up McGonigle for his Major League debut as early as this upcoming season. He's likely to start the season at Double-A Erie, but could continue to skyrocket through the system if he experiences success at Triple-A Toledo. 

He was one of three Tigers prospects at last year's All-Star Futures Games at Truist Park in Atlanta, joining outfielder Max Clark and first baseman Josue Briceno. 

In a 2022 interview with The Philadelphia Inquirer, McGonigle said he models his game after six-time All-Star second baseman Chase Utley. 

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