Tigers not expected to move top prospect at trade deadline

Contributor
Matt Sullivan
Tigers not expected to move top prospect at trade deadline image

At the 2025 MLB trade deadline, the Detroit Tigers are one of the teams that could make a major splash. With needs in the starting rotation, bullpen, outfield, and at third base, the Tigers will be involved in plenty of trade talks.

But, according to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the Tigers aren't expected to move one of their top prospects at the trade deadline. Morosi was firm in his report, "I cannot envision a scenario in which the Tigers seriously discuss Kevin McGonigle in a deadline trade."

Despite the Tigers being in great shape to buy now, they aren't expected to move on from McGonigle, and likely Max Clark as well. The 20-year-old lefty has a 65-grade hit tool, and in the minor leagues, he's more than proving that grade is justified.

In 2025, between the Single A and High A, McGonigle is batting .357 with a .440 on-base percentage and a .643 slugging percentage. His 1.083 OPS is the best it's been in his three minor league seasons, and he's been slugging the ball in his 37 games this year.

McGonigle has 51 hits, 33 runs scored, 20 doubles, seven home runs, 36 RBIs, 21 walks, and 18 strikeouts in 143 at-bats this season. His offensive production is at its best, and that has led him to be a member of the 2025 MLB Futures Game.

With McGonigle being the 21st-ranked prospect in baseball, there would likely be plenty of teams interested in acquiring him. He'd be a great piece in a trade, and could help the Tigers land a superstar if they wanted to.

But, after this report from Morosi, a trade of McGonigle doesn't seem likely. Not only does Morosi view a trade as unlikely, but he also doesn't even envision the team involving him in trade discussions.

The Tigers' second-ranked prospect isn't going anywhere, as the Tigers aren't expected to entertain offers for the 20-year-old slugger in the middle of an incredible season.