Zach McKinstry
Breakdown
Performance
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June 5, 2026
Making first start in center field
McKinstry is starting in center field and batting eighth Friday against the Mariners.
Analysis
It will be McKinstry's first action in center field since the 2023 season. The utility man has played second base, third base, shortstop and right field this season, and his positional versatility keeps him on the lineup card more often that not. McKinstry is in the midst of a 1-for-26 skid at the plate, however, and is slashing just .158/.246/.211 with one homer, nine RBI, two runs scored, one stolen base and a 14:23 BB:K across 132 plate appearances this season.
June 3, 2026
Hitting bench Wednesday
McKinstry is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Rays.
Analysis
McKinstry had started in each of Detroit's last three games, but he could be at risk of falling into more of a part-time role after the Tigers reinstated Gleyber Torres from the 10-day injured list Tuesday. Since the beginning of May, the Tigers rank 29th in the majors with a .287 wOBA, and McKinstry has played a major part in the team's offensive struggles. During that stretch, McKinstry is slashing just .127/.238/.141 over 86 plate appearances.
