Kevin McGonigle's spring isn't slowing down; the Tigers haven't decided on Triple A

Kevin McGonigle has had a strong spring, batting .267 with a 1.063 OPS while playing shortstop in big-league camp. The Tigers have not yet decided whether he will skip Triple A for Opening Day.

Kevin McGonigle has spent the spring drawing attention from reporters and teammates while working every day in Detroit’s big-league camp. The 21-year-old shortstop has shown improved plate discipline and defensive feel. He has faced new pitchers and is taking notes and video as part of his preparation. The Tigers are weighing whether to keep him with the major-league club or send him to Triple A. Key details: - Age and role: 21-year-old shortstop who has been in the Tigers’ big-league camp and is appearing daily in workouts and games. - Spring performance: batting .267 with a 1.063 OPS and noted plate discipline; his average dipped briefly to .259 at one point. - Power showing: hit a 437-foot home run against Phillies starter Chuck King while about 50 friends and family were in the stands. - Defensive and preparation notes: has held his own at shortstop, refined pre-pitch timing, and uses notes and video to study opponents. - Roster decision: Detroit has not decided whether McGonigle will skip Triple A for Opening Day and is weighing service-time and Prospect Promotion Incentive considerations. - Clubroom context: teammates have playfully teased him and veterans such as Justin Verlander are part of the camp environment. Summary: McGonigle’s spring performance has provided clear evidence of progress and has complicated the Tigers’ roster calculations because of service-time and incentive rules. The club continues to play him regularly while it weighs options. Undetermined at this time.