Kevin McGonigle Advances in Tigers Opening Day Lineup vs. Cardinals
The Detroit Tigers opened their home slate Friday at Comerica Park with a lively crowd and first pitch scheduled for 1:10 p.m. The team entered the game 2-4, but fans kept the energy high ahead of the home opener.
Lineup changes and roster notes
Manager AJ Hinch made a notable change to the batting order. Rookie Kevin McGonigle advances into the leadoff spot and will play third base.
McGonigle began the season in the No. 6 spot. After a quick start, he moved to second in the final two games in Arizona. Colt Keith, who shares a .364 batting average with McGonigle, was not in the starting lineup.
- 1. Kevin McGonigle, 3B
- 2. Gleyber Torres, DH
- 3. Kerry Carpenter, RF
- 4. Riley Greene, LF
- 5. Dillon Dingler, C
- 6. Zach McKinstry, 2B
- 7. Spencer Torkelson, 1B
- 8. Parker Meadows, CF
- 9. Javier Baez, SS
- Starter: Framber Valdez, SP
Starting pitchers and recent form
Framber Valdez gets the start for Detroit. He is listed with a 0-0 record and a 1.50 ERA. In his Detroit debut last Friday, he allowed two runs (one earned) over six innings while striking out five.
The Cardinals counter with Michael McGreevy. He threw six scoreless innings against Tampa Bay on Saturday but received a no-decision.
St. Louis lineup and matchup
The Cardinals sent a full lineup against Detroit’s starter. The top of their order featured Masyn Winn at shortstop and Ivan Herrera behind the plate.
- 1. Masyn Winn, SS
- 2. Ivan Herrera, C
- 3. Alec Burleson, 1B
- 4. Ramon Urias, 3B
- 5. Jordan Walker, RF
- 6. Yohel Pozo, DH
- 7. Thomas Saggese, 2B
- 8. Jose Fermin, LF
- 9. Victor Scott II, CF
- Starter: Michael McGreevy, SP
Fan atmosphere and season outlook
Fans discussed predictions for the 2025 season while renewing traditions and wearing team gear. The upbeat mood suggested optimism despite the early record.
The move to promote McGonigle reshapes the Tigers Opening Day lineup and adds intrigue in the matchup vs. Cardinals. Filmogaz.com covered the lineup decisions and pitching matchup at Comerica Park.
