Kevin McGonigle Earns Tigers Roster Spot | MLB.com

SAN DIEGO – Kevin McGonigle’s path to the Detroit Tigers’ Opening Day roster wasn’t a straightforward one. It involved a calculated approach from manager A.J. Hinch, designed not just to assess the young outfielder’s talent, but similarly his ability to handle the pressure and preparation required at the Major League level. The culmination of that process came with a conversation that, according to Hinch, was about earning the opportunity, not simply being given it.

“What I think is important when you tell a young player that he’s making his first Major League team is how he earned it,” Hinch said. “We were open-minded from the very beginning of the spring and we threw a lot at him. And so, what I wanted him to feel is the fact that he earned it and he did impress us with how he went about his business – not the numbers, not the homer off [Luis] Severino [in the Dominican Republic], not the more walks than strikeouts. Those are all impressive, but how he went about his spring really leads me to trust that his preparation is going to be at this level.”

Hinch deliberately laid out to McGonigle how he had secured a spot on the team, but did so *before* delivering the good news. It was a method intended to reinforce the idea that his inclusion wasn’t a gift, but a result of his performance, and dedication. For McGonigle, the moment was surreal.

“Of course, he told me the great news,” McGonigle said. “I still can’t really put it into words. I’m still just taking it all in and I feel like it won’t hit me until the national anthem tomorrow.”

McGonigle’s preparation extended beyond simply showing up for workouts. He proactively studied opposing pitchers, even before appearing in a Grapefruit League game. Before his first spring training appearance, he reviewed video of the Yankees starter for that game, Carlos Lagrange, whom he had previously faced in the Minor Leagues. He meticulously took notes on at-bats and pitching approaches, seeking patterns and potential adjustments. This dedication didn’t go unnoticed by the Tigers’ coaching staff.

That commitment to preparation continues as McGonigle transitions to facing Major League competition regularly. He understands the importance of retaining information about opposing pitchers, analyzing their tendencies, and anticipating their strategies. “I’m going to see these guys again at some point,” McGonigle said. “Just trying to keep all the little things, how they pitched me or what they did early in the count, just having that in the back of my mind for the next time I face them.”

The news wasn’t just significant for McGonigle; it was a moment to share with his family. His first call was to his parents. His mother immediately made plans to travel to San Diego for Thursday’s game, whereas his father’s first question was about ticket availability. “First call was to my parents,” McGonigle said. “My mom, I talked to her and I said, ‘What are you doing Thursday?’ And right away she was like, ‘I’m going to San Diego.’ So that was nice.

“I told my dad right after. I told him the news and he was like, ‘How many tickets do I receive?’”

McGonigle’s jersey number has also undergone a change, shifting from 85 to 7 – a number he wore throughout much of his youth baseball career. The change is a symbolic gesture, representing a return to his roots as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.

The decision to include McGonigle on the Opening Day roster wasn’t simply about his potential; it was a testament to his work ethic, his ability to learn, and his willingness to prepare. Hinch and the Tigers’ front office clearly believe he’s ready to contribute, not just as a player, but as a student of the game. His debut marks a significant moment for the young outfielder and a potentially important addition to a Tigers team looking to build momentum in the upcoming season. The Tigers open their season against the San Diego Padres on Thursday, with Skubal taking the mound against Pivetta.