Detroit Tigers infielder, Kevin McGonigle is ranked the No. 2 overall prospect by MLBPipeline.com.
A left-handed hitter, McGonigle’s hit tool is a Grade 70, according to MLBPipeline.com.
A Grade 70 hit too equates to a consistent All Star type batting average, and offensive production.
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But it isn’t only his batting average that could be special on the parent Tigers, as McGonigle also features Grade 60 power, which is well above major league average.
LOS ANGELES, CA – JULY 15: Kevin McGonigle #6 of the National League Team bats during the MLB-USA Baseball High School All-American Game at Dodger Stadium on Friday, July 15, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/MLB Photos via Getty Images)
MLB Photos via Getty ImagesAbout Kevin McGonigle:
When he was still a freshman in high school, McGonigle committed to play baseball at Auburn University.
But…
The Detroit Tigers chose McGonigle in the supplemental 1st round of the 2023 Major League Baseball draft out of Monsignor Bonner and Archbishop Prendergast High School, in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania.
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As a senior, McGonigle was named the Philadelphia Catholic League Player of the Year, and the Pennsylvania Gatorade Player of the Year. He hit .474, with four homers, and 16 RBIs in 21 games.
The Tigers signed McGonigle for a bonus of $2.85M, which was above the MLB recommended $2.31M for that slot.
MLBPipeline.com shares the fact that McGonigle suffered from a fractured right hamate bone in 2024, and a right ankle sprain in 2025. However, McGonigle appears to be totally healthy, and raring to go.
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fangraphs.com has listed McGonigle as the starting shortstop for the Tigers on opening day.
McGonigle won the 2025 Midwest League Top MLB Prospect Award.
MESA, AZ – NOVEMBER 04: Kevin McGonigle #9 of the Scottsdale Scorpions hits a solo home run in the first inning of the game between the Scottsdale Scorpions and the Mesa Solar Sox at Sloan Park on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/MLB Photos via Getty Images)
MLB Photos via Getty ImagesScouting Kevin McGonigle:
At 5-9, 187 pounds, McGonigle doesn’t have a huge frame. But he can rake.
McGonigle won the 2025 Arizona Fall League Most Valuable Player Award, when he hit .363/.500/.710, with five home runs, 22 runs scored in 19 games. He walked more than he struck out.
McGonigle has been called the best “pure” hitter in all of minor league baseball by several scouts.
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McGonigle’s assault on the baseball begins with excellent pitch recognition. He is patient at the plate, knows his limitations, and selects pitches he can drive to the gaps.
Using superb barrel command, McGonigle can spray the ball all over the field, and over the fence.
Defensively, scouts are conflicted on McGonigle’s ideal position.
While he can play shortstop well, his footwork, and first step may be better suited for second base.
McGonigle has average arm strength, and his throws from the hole at shortstop may lack some strength and carry.
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A left-handed middle-infielder with a great hit tool and emerging power is rare. But that’s who McGonigle is.
LAKELAND, FL – FEBRUARY 22: Detroit Tigers Manager A. J. Hinch (14) smiles and salutes the opposing team’s manager before the Spring Training Game between the Baltimoe Orioles and the Detroit Tigers on February 22, 2026 at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in Tampa, FL. (Photo by Cliff Welch/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Icon Sportswire via Getty ImagesWhat They’re Saying About McGonigle:
McGonigle told justbaseball.com, ““Growing up, my dad always told me when it came to baseball, to just be prepared for every opportunity, no matter what position it is,” McGonigle said.
“That’s why you wait around for that at-bat, because something good can happen,” is what was reported by msn.com, about comments from manager A.J. Hinch
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SI.com also reported these comments from Hinch: “He’s getting a good look to see where he’s at amongst players he’s never played around or played with, and he’s holding his own, he’s a tremendously talented player,” Hinch said. “He’s going to be a big leaguer at some point, whether that’s opening day or whether that’s in the season is to be determined.”
Scouting Grade: 65
Driven by a tremendous hit tool, and emerging power, Kevin McGonigle could be a consistent Major League Baseball All Star. He’s that good.
By the time you read this, McGonigle could have been named the opening day shortstop.