# McGonigle makes history with rookie on-base record

> Kevin McGonigle becomes fifth MLB rookie since 1990 to reach base safely 262 times, joining Hall of Famer Harvey Kuenn's 1953 legacy.
- Title: McGonigle makes history with rookie on-base record · Mlb
- Summary: Kevin McGonigle becomes fifth MLB rookie since 1990 to reach base safely 262 times, joining Hall of Famer Harvey Kuenn's 1953 legacy. McGonigle's consistent…
- Keywords: kevin mcgonigle, tigers, mlb, rookie of the year, on-base percentage, comerica park, a.j. hinch, harvey kuenn, al rookie of the year, sports, McGonigle, makes
- Source: Mlb — https://mlb.com/news/kevin-mcgonigle-three-hits-tigers-lose-to-nationals
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: kevin mcgonigle, tigers, mlb, rookie of the year, on-base percentage, al, comerica park, a.j. hinch, harvey kuenn, al rookie of the year, sports
## Tigers' 1953 rookie legacy
Harvey Kuenn reached base safely 260 times in 1953, setting an AL record for rookies at the time.

> It's a pretty cool accomplishment.
## McGonigle's on-base milestone
Kevin McGonigle reached base safely 262 times, becoming the fifth MLB rookie since 1990 to do so.

> First off, I don't think it would be possible without the guys in this clubhouse.
## Rookie of the year contenders
McGonigle joins four previous rookies who won the award: Judge, Suzuki, Pujols, and Grieve.

> To have my name up there with guys like that is pretty special.
## On-base consistency
McGonigle has reached base in every game but one, batting .305 with a .396 on-base percentage in September.

> I kind of want to get on base as much as I can.
## Game performance
McGonigle hit a double and single in Wednesday's game against the Nationals, seeing 14 pitches across five at-bats.

> He's going to continue to develop.
## Historic comparison
McGonigle's on-base record matches Harvey Kuenn's 1953 campaign, showing resilience through physical and mental challenges.

> He's obsessed with the details.
## Future potential
McGonigle could become the first MLB hitter with more walks than strikeouts in his age-21 season or younger since Gary Sheffield in 1990.

> Give me the guy who's in complete control of his at-bats.
## Key takeaway

McGonigle's consistent on-base performance sets him apart as a rookie offensive catalyst despite challenges in adapting to MLB pitching.