The Detroit Tigers ended a four-game losing streak on Monday, defeating the Tampa Bay Rays 10-9. Shortstop Kevin McGonigle put together a solid performance, accounting for four at-bats, two runs scored, one hit and one walk.
Despite the victory, though, it's been a disappointing season for the Tigers. After going 87-75 last season and making a postseason appearance, they faced high expectations. However, while dealing with a handful of injuries, they are just 23-38 with 101 games left in the 2026 season.
After snapping their four-game skid, Detroit is opting to switch things up. According to MLB.com's Jason Beck, Tigers manager A.J. Hinch revealed McGonigle will not be in the starting lineup on Tuesday for the first time since May 4.
© Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images
The shortstop has been one of the Tigers' most consistent hitters throughout the 2026 season. Appearing in 59 games, he has accumulated 221 at-bats, 63 hits, 38 runs scored, three home runs, 21 RBIs and nine stolen bases.
The 21-year-old is also slashing .285/.390/.407 with a .797 OPS. He has exceeded expectations, making his MLB debut this year as Detroit's starting third baseman on opening day.
Since then, McGonigle has become the team's primary shortstop, starting 33 games at the position. However, with a rest day and Javier Baez on the 10-day IL, the next man up may be Zack Short.
The Tigers' postseason hopes are quickly slipping away. Going into their Tuesday matchup against the Rays, they are 11 games behind the American League Central-leading Cleveland Guardians and 6.5 games back from a wild card spot.
A win over Tampa Bay would be a step in the right direction, though. While McGonigle watches from the dugout, first pitch is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. ET at Tropicana Field.
