The Tigers opened the 2026 MLB season on the road in San Diego to take on the Padres. Kevin Mcgonigle, making his major league debut paced Detroit with 4 hits and 2 RBI in his first MLB action.
Detroit wasted no time jumping on Padres starter Nick Pivetta. The Tigers loaded the bases in the top of the first, where Spencer Torkelson walked, drawing in a run to make it 1-0. Mcgonigle ripped the first pitch of his first MLB at bat down the line for a 2-RBI double. Catcher Dillon Dingler singled in a run and it was 4-0 Tigers before the two time defending A.L Cy young winner even stepped on the mound. Detroit ace Tarik Skubal went 6 innings with 0 earned runs, striking out 6 while scattering 3 hits and no walks. Dingler would add to the Tigers lead later on with a 2-run homer to left.
Detroit also collected hits from Gleyber Torres, Parker Meadows, and Javier Baez, with Colt Keith adding two hits. New addition to the team Framber Valdez takes the ball for Detroit in game 2 tomorrow.
Player of the game: Kevin McGonigle 4-5 2RBI 2 Doubles