Detroit Tigers, Game 16: One thing I loved, one thing I didn't

The News' Tony Paul gives his quick takes on the Tigers' 8-2 victory over the Marlins on Sunday: One thing I loved The Kevin McGonigle Show. He's 16 games into his major-league career, but he looks like he's been around a lot longer than that. He's been an impact player since Day 1 for Detroit in 2026, and he had a three-hit game Sunday, including his first major-league home run — a 408-foot no-doubter off Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara in the fifth inning.

The Tigers actually hit three home runs off Alcantara, including a three-run shot by Dillon Dingler in the first and a two-run shot by Kerry Carpenter in the sixth (both fell behind in the count, 0-2). It was the first time Alcantara has allowed three home runs in a start since 2023. He didn't allow a single home run in his first three starts of 2026.

McGonigle has 19 hits through his first 16 games, and eight have been for extra bases. It was his fourth multi-hit game. He also drew his ninth walk — in the plate appearance after his home run, with runners in scoring position, he showed maturity beyond his years by not trying to do too much.

McGonigle, 21, is doing it all, including with the glove . To think, there was actually a debate not long ago about whether he was ready for this stage. He's started all but one game for the Tigers, he's played in every game — and he's played big in most every game.