Tigers Kevin McGonigle joins Hall of Famer with impressive stat

Tigers Kevin McGonigle joins Hall of Famer with impressive stat originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Detroit Tigers infielder Kevin McGonigle has been a great addition to the Tigers' roster since debuting in March. The 21-year-old has adjusted well to the big leagues, hitting .330 with a .951 OPS, two home runs, two triples (leading the American League) and walking 16 times to 15 strikeouts.

McGonigle’s hitting ability was never a question, with a 70/80 hit grade. However, his hitting ability has led to a high on-base percentage (.423), putting him in rarified air with one of the greatest Tigers, Hall of Famer Al Kaline.

Kevin McGonigle joins Detroit Tigers legend Al Kaline for one of the longest on-base streaks

According to Tigers PR on X, McGonigle has reached base safely in 24 consecutive starts. McGonigle’s streak is the longest by a player 21 or younger in the Tigers' history since Kaline had 34 from July 26 to August 28, 1956.

Kaline had a great season in 1956, making his second of his 18 All-Star teams and hitting .314 with a .913 OPS, 27 home runs, 128 RBI in 153 games. Kaline would also finish third in the MVP voting that season behind New York Yankees catcher Yogi Berra (second place) and Yankees outfielder Mickey Mantle (first).

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McGonigle’s impressive start to the season could have him playing in his hometown of Philadelphia this summer in the All-Star game. Switching between third base (15 games, 32 defensive runs saved) and shortstop (18 games, zero defensive runs saved), McGonigle will have an uphill battle to secure a spot.