MINNEAPOLIS — Detroit Tigers utility player Zach McKinstry, a left-handed hitter acquired three days before Opening Day in a trade with the Chicago Cubs, earned his role this season as the leadoff hitter against right-handed pitchers, thanks to his quality plate appearances.
A month later, the 28-year-old is slumping for the first time in this season. After a red-hot May, McKinstry has been regressing through 13 games in June to results that align with his career numbers.
"I'm trying to simplify and keep that ball in the middle of the plate," McKinstry said.