Detroit Rookie Kevin McGonigle Heads Home for All-Star Weekend

Detroit Tigers rookie Kevin McGonigle, a 21-year-old native of Media, Pennsylvania, will travel to Philadelphia for the 2024 All-Star Game and Home Run Derby. The trip marks his first appearance at the midsummer showcase and his first major-league event in his hometown.

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Drafted by Detroit with the No. 37 overall pick in the 2023 MLB draft, McGonigle advanced through the minors without a stint at Triple-A Toledo, spending just over two years in the lower levels. After debuting in spring training and collecting four hits in his first major-league game, the Tigers rewarded him with an eight-year, $150 million contract. By the All-Star break, he became the fifth rookie age 21 or younger since 1947 to record at least 99 hits, trailing only Mike Trout and Hall of Famer Al Kaline in pre-All-Star on-base totals.

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Tigers outfielder Riley Greene praised McGonigle’s plate discipline, noting his unusual maturity for a player his age. Phillies manager Don Mattingly highlighted the broader trend of young hitters making immediate impacts, recalling McGonigle’s spring-training swing as a sign of his rapid development.

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Ahead of the Home Run Derby, McGonigle shared his favorite local sandwich spots, naming Delco’s Steaks in Delaware County as his top choice and recommending Philip’s in the city for its distinctive meat-cutting style.

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• “I'm super pumped,” — Kevin McGonigle, Tigers rookie

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• “I'd say this is the best one I've ever had,” — Kevin McGonigle, describing his All-Star duffel bag

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• “It's so impressive how mature he is in the box,” — Riley Greene, Tigers outfielder

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• “He's a good-looking, young player,” — Don Mattingly, Phillies manager

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• “Delco’s Steaks in Delaware County, which is where I’m from, is my favorite,” — Kevin McGonigle, cheesesteak recommendation

Associated Press

• “In the city, Philip’s is a sleeper. There’s a different way they cut the meat, and it’s really good.” — Kevin McGonigle, cheesesteak recommendation

Associated Press