
The Detroit Tigers have secured a historic contract extension for top prospect Kevin McGonigle, just one week after the Pittsburgh Pirates signed Konnor Griffin to a nine-year, $140 million deal. This move highlights the competitive nature of MLB contract negotiations for emerging talent.
Detroit Tigers shortstop Kevin McGonigle
Tigers One-Up Pirates With Historic Contract Extension For Top Prospect originally appeared on SportsNet Pittsburgh. Add SportsNet Pittsburgh as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
'Tis the season for MLB contract extensions.
One week after the Pittsburgh Pirates finalized a nine-year, $140 million contract extension with MLB's top prospect, Konnor Griffin, the Detroit Tigers gave MLB's No. 2 prospect a similar megadeal on Wednesday.
The Tigers and Kevin McGonigle reportedly agreed to an eight-year, $150 million contract extension on Wednesday, slightly outdoing Griffin's franchise-record contract in terms of both total value and AAV. The deal includes a $14 million signing bonus and could reach $160 million with escalators, similar to how Griffin's deal could reach $150 million with escalators.
McGonigle, like Griffin, is also a rookie shortstop, albeit two years older at 21. Both of their deals also run through 2034, as McGonigle's extension doesn't start until next year.
Unlike Griffin, however, McGonigle's Major League career is off to an incredible start. Over his first 17 MLB games, he already has 1.1 WAR, eight extra-base hits, a .311/.417/.492 batting line and more walks than strikeouts.
While the two play in separate leagues, they have a chance to be one of the best rookie duos in MLB history if McGonigle keeps it up and Griffin figures things out.
More MLB:Â Pirates Manager Reveals Why Konnor Griffin Is Destined For Greatness
Share this article
Konnor Griffin's contract extension with the Pittsburgh Pirates is valued at nine years and $140 million.
Kevin McGonigle is the Detroit Tigers' top prospect and his contract extension is significant as it reflects the team's commitment to securing top talent in MLB.
While the exact terms of Kevin McGonigle's contract extension have not been disclosed, it is noted to be a similar megadeal to Konnor Griffin's recent contract with the Pirates.



See every story in Sports â including breaking news and analysis.