Zach McKinstry

The Tigers and Zach McKinstry have agreed to a one-year, $1.65M deal to avoid arbitration.

Fantasy Impact

McKinstry posted a .215 average, four home runs, and 23 RBI in 118 games with the Tigers last season. He will likely serve as the utility player for the Tigers again in 2025.

Zach McKinstry is back in the lineup for the Detroit Tigers against the Chicago White Sox Saturday.

Fantasy Impact

McKinstry returns after sitting on the bench the last three games, starting at shortstop and batting eighth against the White Sox for manager AJ Hinch Saturday.

Zach McKinstry is out of the starting lineup for the Tigers Wednesday.

Fantasy Impact

McKinstry will head to the bench after going hitless Tuesday. Matt Vierling will start at third base and bat third against the Rays.

Zach McKinstry went 2-for-5 in the Tigers' narrow 7-6 victory over the Royals, featuring a double, a triple, one run scored, and a stolen base.

Fantasy Impact

Despite the multi-hit game, McKinstry's season batting average remains a modest .225, reflecting a year filled with ups and downs. His ability to mix in extra-base hits and stolen bases, as seen in this game, provides some fantasy value, particularly in deeper leagues or formats that reward diverse statistical contributions. However, his high strikeout rate and low walk rate limit his appeal in points leagues that penalize for strikeouts. Fantasy managers should consider McKinstry a situational player, best utilized when matchups favor his skill set.

Zach McKinstry is in the starting lineup for the Tigers Thursday.

Fantasy Impact

McKinstry will start in right field and bat seventh against the Rockies Thursday. He is hitting .226, with four home runs, 22 RBI, and 14 stolen bases this season.