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Kevin McGonigle Wins AFL MVP, Strengthening Tigers Prospect’s 2026 Trajectory

The performance positions the Tigers’ top prospect for a 2026 roster bid.

Overview

  • Detroit infielder Kevin McGonigle was named the Arizona Fall League Joe Black MVP on Nov. 14, giving the Tigers consecutive winners after Josue Briceño in 2024.
  • He hit .362/.500/.710 over 19 games for Scottsdale, leading the league in extra-base hits and total bases with five home runs and a 1.210 OPS.
  • The 21-year-old capped a breakout Minor League season by reaching Double-A and batting .305 with a Minors-best 182 wRC+ and 19 homers in 88 games.
  • MLB Pipeline ranks McGonigle as baseball’s No. 2 overall prospect, and he expanded his defensive work with third-base reps after time at shortstop and second.
  • Reporters project he will push for a Tigers job in 2026, with coverage indicating he is expected to compete for a starting role in spring training.