While Detroit Tigers couldn't pass by Seattle Mariners For the ALDS, the 2025 season was a huge step in the right direction. There is plenty to be optimistic about, especially with the 2026 season poised to be another deep playoff run.
But first comes the off-season. Detroit will have a lot of questions to answer as to whether they want to re-sign their free agents or acquire talent through trades or free agent signings.
During his year-end press conference, Tigers general manager Scott Harris hinted at some very interesting decisions for the 2026 season. How Tigers ML report posted on Twitter/XDetroit is expected to make some interesting prospects heading into the 2026 MLB season.
Tigers general manager reveals exciting decision regarding top prospects for 2026 season
“I expect players who have dominated Double-A for years to be on our big league team next year. They deserve it,” Harris said. “I expect their progress to continue and I expect them to be in Detroit at some point next year.”
Scott Harris: “I expect players who have dominated for years in Double-A to be on our big league team next year…” pic.twitter.com/X1P6ZW6rI3
— Tigers ML Report (@tigersMLreport) October 13, 2025
The Tigers have several players who fit that description who could be very interesting call-ups for the 2026 season. Top prospect Kevin McGonigle, who ranks very high on the MLB prospect rankings, fits that description perfectly.
The 21-year-old tore through the Tigers' farm system this season, reaching Double-A, playing 46 games and posting a .919 OPS with a .254 batting average and 12 home runs, along with 41 RBIs and 10 doubles.
McGonigle is an incredible prospect who could play a role in the Tigers' infield in 2026. He'll likely get his chance in spring training, and if he does well there, keeping him in the MLB Opening Day lineup will be tough.
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Another name to keep an eye on is Max Clark, a 20-year-old prospect who hit .251 with a .799 OPS in 43 games at Double-A. While he's not as good as McGonigle this season, he's still been very impressive and deserves a chance on the MLB roster.
Josue Briceno, a first baseman and catcher, had a .716 OPS in 45 games at Double-A, and Bryce Reiner had an OPS. 831 OPS in 35 Double-A games, both of whom could be players to watch as MLB call-ups.
While there are many prospects who deserve a call-up, two stand out the most – Clarke and McGonigle. Both are highly rated prospects MLB pipeline and would be a great addition to Detroit's 2026 roster.
But who will actually receive the call? As Harris said, “Will this affect what we do this winter? Absolutely. How could this not have an impact? So the likelihood of one of these prospects getting drafted could depend on what the Tigers do in free agency.
If the Tigers add help in the infield, McGonigle's MLB debut may have to wait. The same could be said about Clark and his field assistance. But if Harris and the Tigers don't add any positions, both Clark and McGonigle could be the first to be called up to the Major League roster.
