Tarik Skubal sends 2-word message as Tigers No. 1 prospect Kevin McGonigle flashes star potential before joining Big Leagues

Tarik Skubal and the Detroit Tigers had a disappointing end to a promising 2025 season, getting knocked out in the American League Division Series by the Seattle Mariners. But the star pitcher isn't losing his touch with the sport in the offseason, as he was in attendance for No.1 Tigers prospect Kevin McGonigle's Fall League game.

McGonigle is ranked No. 2 on the MLB's Prospect list and has risen in the ranks of the organization, having been selected 39th in the 2023 draft. On Tuesday, during his game for the Arizona Fall League's Scottsdale Scorpions, he was able to impress arguably the American League's best pitcher.

McGonigle hit 4-for-5 with two home runs and 4 RBIs against the Mesa Solar Sox. Tarik Skubal put up an Instagram story featuring a McGonigle at-bat, impressed by the infielder's prowess, with a two-word caption.

"He bangs," he said.

The appreciation coming from a senior player like Skubal would do McGonigle's stock a world of good. It is no secret that the team has been actively looking to upgrade its infield, which had low returns in 2025. McGonigle, who has played second base and shortstop, is currently learning to play as a third baseman with the Scorpions.

At McGonigle's primary position of shortstop, the Tigers fielded Trey Sweeney, who hit .196 with 32 RBIs and six home runs, and Javier Baez, who hit .259 with 57 RBIs and 12 home runs this season. Second baseman Gleyber Torres is heading into free agency after completing a one-year stint with the club.

McGonigle played for High-A West Michigan and Double-A Erie in 2025, recording a .305 average with 19 home runs. He is expected to be given a brief stint with the Triple-A Toledo Mud Hens to start the 2026 season before a decision is made about his promotion to the big leagues.

Kevin McGonigle hopes to continue consistency at the plate

After the game on Tuesday, which the Scottsdale Scorpions lost 21-14, Kevin McGonigle opened up about maintaining the mindset that has brought him success in his short professional career.

“I feel like the whole time I've been grinding everything out, getting every at-bat in and taking every pitch as hard as I can," McGonigle said via MLB's website. "I feel like I've been keeping up with the same thing I've been doing throughout the season, and I look forward to keep doing that."

His success could also affect Skubal's decision to stay at the Tigers. The reigning AL Cy Young winner would hope for the Tigers to remain competitive if he signs a long-term extension with the club.