Tigers’ Kevin McGonigle Sticks With What Works
When it comes to minor league players experimenting with mechanical changes, some go the route of major adjustments, while others keep it simple.
For 20-year-old shortstop Kevin McGonigle, if it ain’t broke, don’t stress about it.
In fact, since growing up in Delaware County, just outside Philadelphia, he said he hasn’t really changed much of anything about his lefthanded swing.
“I would say my whole life I’ve had the same stance, same toe taps,” McGonigle said. “I haven’t really changed anything, which I think helps me. I don’t like digging into a lot of mechanical changes.
“I feel like I keep it really simple at the plate. I would also watch film on Chase Utley and Tony Gwynn.”
Drafted 37th overall in 2023 out of Monsignor Bonner High, McGonigle got his first look at the Florida State League in a 12-game stretch to end the 2023 season.
In his return to Low-A Lakeland in 2024, McGonigle began to attract attention. He slashed .326/.407/.470 with four home runs and 20 stolen bases in 60 games to earn a promotion to High-A West Michigan in July.
But roughly three weeks into his Midwest League campaign, McGonigle’s momentum shifted.
“It was funny. That day, (Jim) Jarvis and I were talking about hamate bones for some reason,” McGonigle said. “Then my first at-bat—I think it was my third swing—I felt a pop, and my ring finger and pinky went numb. I was like, ‘I know exactly what that is.’ “
A successful surgery and full rehabilitation have McGonigle ready to get back to work in Lakeland this spring.
That includes extensive infield work with Tigers roving instructor Alan Trammell.
“I feel like all parts of my game could use work,” McGonigle said. “My main focus is my pre-pitch (defensive setup). I talked with the Tigers, and we went over my profile, and I was struggling with my reaction off the bat. So I’ve been working on my pre-pitch and messing around with different techniques.”
“I’m feeling really good in the field.”
