Detroit Tigers' Miguel Cabrera celebrates after scoring on a sacrifice fly hit by Harold Castro during the second inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals Thursday, April 14, 2022, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)AP

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Could Miguel Cabrera reach 3,000 here at Kauffman Stadium?

The unlikely scenario got a bit more likely after his three-hit performance in the Detroit Tigers’ series-opening win over the Kansas City Royals on Thursday night.

He now has 2,994 hits and three more games at this ballpark where he absolutely loves to hit. His family is town just in case.

But even if Cabrera doesn’t get another hit the rest of the weekend, it’s worth pausing to appreciate his work in the series opener.

He had singles in the second, fourth and sixth innings, scoring what turned out to be a critical run in the second inning.

“It was like Speedy Gonzales!” Cabrera said after the game.

With the bases loaded Harold Castro hit a fly ball to medium-depth left field. Cabrera tagged up from third base and, frankly, looked like a dead duck at the plate.

The throw from left fielder Andrew Benintendi was fine, but a few base to the field sign of the line. Catcher Salvador Perez had to catch the ball and lunge back to the plate. Cabrera very adeptly slide to the far corner of the dish, just sneaking in ahead of the tag.

Cabrera, who turns 39 on Monday, had somehow bested two Gold Glovers.

THAT'S WHAT SPEED DO 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/wyLBqHjZ1Y

This is what pure speed looks like. pic.twitter.com/1vTub3RYgr

“This is arguably one of the best defenses in the American League,” said Tigers manager A.J. Hinch. “Every run matters here.”

Cabrera pumped his fist in celebration then strutted to the dugout Vince McMahon-style.

“It was hilarious, honestly,” said Tigers starting pitcher Casey Mize.

After the game, Cabrera was asked about the 3,000 chase, questions he has politely deflected since spring.

“I try to go out there and play my best baseball and help the guys,” he said. “I know it’s a lot of pressure. I know there’s a lot of eyes on me. But at the same time, I’m in a good position right now. I’m happy to be here and hopefully we can win more games. I think that’s more important. If we win, I think the numbers are going to be there.”

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