The Detroit Tigers have made an exciting announcement: top prospect Kevin McGonigle will be joining the Opening Day roster. With the season opener just around the corner, McGonigle's jersey number has also been unveiled.
The 21-year-old infielder will don the No. 7 jersey for the Tigers this season. Last year, that number was sported by Manuel Margot. As the No. 2 overall prospect on MLB's Top 100 list, McGonigle is ready to make his mark.
Drafted 37th overall by the Tigers in 2023, McGonigle is set to make his major league debut. While it's still uncertain if he'll start in Thursday's game against the San Diego Padres, manager AJ Hinch has a couple of days to finalize the lineup.
The decision on who will start at shortstop could come down to Javier Baez or Zach McKinstry if Hinch opts to ease McGonigle into the majors. However, given McGonigle's impressive minor league stats, it's hard to overlook him for an immediate starting role.
During his time in the minors, McGonigle showcased his talent with a .313 batting average, a .419 on-base percentage, 233 hits, 30 home runs, 149 RBIs, and 43 stolen bases.
INF Kevin McGonigle (@kevinMcGonigle7) will wear number 7. Last worn by OF Manuel Margot in 2025. #Tigers pic.twitter.com/IxprOi3JRW
— MLB Jersey Numbers (@NumbersMLB) March 24, 2026
With Opening Day just two days away, expectations are sky-high for McGonigle and the Tigers. Whether he starts or not, fans are eagerly anticipating his impact on the field.