Tigers need to consider this key change for Kevin McGonigle as defensive struggles compound

It’s been a great rookie season for Detroit Tigers infielder Kevin McGonigle. He seems very likely to win the American League Rookie of the Year award thanks to his strong offensive numbers, but his defense has certainly left a lot to be desired at times.

He has essentially split time at shortstop and third base this season, but at some point the Tigers would be wise to have him just focus on one position, because his mistakes have had a habit of costing the team.

A defensive miscue against the Chicago White Sox on Thursday night eventually trickled down to Munetaka Murakami three-run home run, which eventually won the game for Chicago. He also had an error in the contest. There have been examples of this all season both at third and short.

He’s made 10 errors at third base this season and 9 errors at shortstop. Those 19 errors are tied for the fifth-most of any player in the big leagues this season. 

Maybe errors aren’t your cup of tea, though. They are somewhat subjective and an imperfect metric, after all. Outs Above Average is a bit kinder to McGonigle, as he only grades out as slightly below average at both third and short.

Really, no matter how you dice it up, it is clear that McGonigle would benefit from just focusing on one position. Third base seems like the obvious solution for now and maybe later in his career he can move over to shortstop, especially once Javier Báez is no longer on the team.

Kevin McGonigle needs to improve defensively if he wants to win a MVP

Getting that consistent play at one position will be good for him and will allow him to get comfortable in one spot. He obviously has the raw ability to be a strong defender, it’s just a matter of getting the reps at one spot.

This will be important especially if McGonigle is going to challenge for an AL MVP trophy later in his career. He has a strong offensive profile, but he’s probably never going to hit 40 home runs, so if he can be solid offensively while being one of the best in the game at his position defensively, that overall value could put him over other players.

The Tigers have also had a third base problem for the better part of a decade. They've carouseled a number of guys through the position over the years, but McGonigle looks like their most promising long-term option in a long time.

The Tigers just need cleaner defense from him going forward if they want to be competitive. Putting him in one spot is the best way to do that so next season should see McGonigle stay put at third. 

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