Kevin McGonigle Named AL Rookie of the Year After Historic Debut Season

Detroit Tigers infielder Kevin McGonigle won the American League Rookie of the Year award on Monday night after a stellar all-around debut season.

McGonigle, who spent most of the season at age 21, posted a .278 batting average and an .806 OPS. He hit 18 home runs, drove in 72 RBIs, recorded 28 doubles, and stole 12 bases while splitting time between third base and shortstop.

“He simply doesn't swing at bad pitches.”

He became the first Tigers player to win the award since pitcher Michael Fulmer in 2016 and the first Tigers infielder since Lou Whitaker in 1978. The Tigers signed him to a $150 million, eight-year contract in April, just weeks into his rookie season.

McGonigle received 28 of 30 first-place votes and finished with 204 points in balloting by the Baseball Writers' Association of America. Cleveland Guardians left-hander Parker Messick finished second with 122 points, while Boston Red Sox left-hander Payton Tolle placed third with 54 points.

In the National League, Cincinnati Reds outfielder Sal Stewart won Rookie of the Year honors. Stewart hit 32 home runs with 112 RBIs while playing all 162 games, including 161 starts.

Stewart received 20 of 30 first-place votes and finished with 170 points. New York Mets outfielder Carson Benge and St. Louis Cardinals second baseman JJ Wetherholt were the other National League finalists.

McGonigle helped the Tigers remain in the playoff race for much of the summer and earned an All-Star selection during his historic rookie campaign.