Three days before Opening Day, the Detroit Tigers acquired Zach McKinstry from the Chicago Cubs in an unexpected trade. He batted leadoff for the first time on April 26, one month into his tenure with the organization, and continues to serve as the leadoff hitter against right-handed pitchers.
McKinstry, a left-handed hitter, leads the Tigers in leadoff opportunities with 12 games, ahead of Matt Vierling (11), Nick Maton (10) and Akil Baddoo (5). The consistent quality of his plate appearances has helped him stick.
"Every chance to get on base, get on base," McKinstry said.