DETROIT — Zach McKinstry sensed he had a shot.
In a pivotal play during the Tigers’ 5-1 win on Monday night, McKinstry sprinted toward a ball hit into right field, snatched it cleanly, and — in one fluid motion — spun and fired a throw over his shoulder to Javier Báez at third base. The throw was on target, leading to a critical out as a Tampa Bay Rays runner tried to score.
“Not many true outfielders can make that throw regularly,” said manager A.J. Hinch. “That’s just a talented athlete relying on instincts and game awareness — something you don’t always see.”
McKinstry, a versatile utility player, has been a key contributor during what’s shaping up to be a breakout season. On top of highlight-reel defense, he also launched a solo home run late in the game. His numbers — a .285 batting average, .355 on-base percentage, .464 slugging, along with 7 home runs, 8 triples, 12 doubles, 27 RBIs, and 11 steals — make a strong case for All-Star consideration.
Hinch summed up his thoughts plainly: “Let’s get him to Atlanta.”
The 30-year-old Central Michigan alum has played six different positions this season, primarily manning right field and third base. For McKinstry, that’s part of the fun — making a difference wherever he’s needed.
“I just like going out and being an athlete, doing what I can to help,” McKinstry said. “How many players can say they’ve made an impact from both right field and third base?”
Teammates, including catcher Dillon Dingler, have appreciated his knack for making game-changing plays — the kind that can shift momentum.
Despite his standout season, McKinstry keeps a low profile and isn’t getting caught up in All-Star hype. While he’s a logical option to replace any injured players on the current roster, he’s not expecting a call just yet. Four Tigers are already set to represent the team in Atlanta, and McKinstry plans to spend the break relaxing by a lake in Washington state.
Still, he’s optimistic and ready to prove he belongs.
“There’s definitely hope,” he said. “But if it doesn’t happen, that’s fine. I’ll go out in the second half and show why I should’ve been there.”
