Tigers' prospect on pace to crack club's 2026 Opening Day roster

Jared Bloom

Tigers' prospect on pace to crack club's 2026 Opening Day roster image

The Detroit Tigers have been at the top of their game for most of the season. They come into Friday's match-ups leading the American League Central with their 78-57 record. They hold an 8.5-game lead over the Kansas City Royals and are looking to close out the regular season on top. 

While the Tigers are playing well, you cannot help but notice what some of their prospects are doing in the minor leagues. Kevin McGonigle, the club's top prospect, has been tearing the cover off the ball in Double-A.

In 33 games, McGonigle is hitting .267/.388/.567two triples, eight doubles, eight home runs, 29 runs batted in, and four stolen bases. According to Motor City Bengals' Emma Lingan, fans could see him crack the team's Opening Day roster next season. 

"The precedent set by Colt Keith - the Tigers' top offensive prospect at the time of his signing in 2024 - could set the stage for McGonigle to sign a contract extension before he even makes his Major League Debut, virtually guaranteeing him a spot on the 2026 Opening Day roster."

Do not expect to see Kevin McGonigle as one of the September call-ups

Even with McGonigle tearing it up in the minor leagues, he likely will not be one of the players who hear their name called up in September. General manager Jeff Greenberg recently went on MLB Network, stating it was not something that was currently on the radar. 

Thoughts are that Hao-Yu Lee or Jace Jung could be the ones to get called up. Both have been impressive this season in the minors and could help the depth over at third base.

Jared Bloom

Jared Bloom is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. He graduated from Judson University, and his love for baseball has led him to cover all aspects of MLB.