Tigers' Kevin McGonigle Receives Unexpected Message From Phillies Coach

Detroit Tigers' rookie Kevin McGonigle has truly had an impressive start to his career.

The 21-year-old has emerged as one of the league's best and earned himself an All-Star nod in his first season.

Through 93 games, McGonigle is slashing .284/.392/.421, good for a .813 OPS, with eight home runs, 34 RBIs, 18 doubles and 11 stolen bases.

The shortstop was drafted with the 37th pick in the 2023 MLB Draft out of Monsignor Bonner High School, right outside of Philadelphia, the location of this year's Midsummer Classic.

McGonigle grew up in Media, Pennsylvania, which is a borough located only 20 minutes away from Citizens Bank Park (Phillies' stadium).

He grew up as a huge Phillies' fan, making his selection to this year's game extra special for the rookie.

On Sunday, he received some unexpected praise from Phillies' hitting coach Kevin Long.

In 2023, Long invited a teenaged McGonigle for batting practice at Citizens Bank Park, later stating, "I had a feeling he was going to be special."