KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Zach McKinstry, a left-handed hitter, joined the Detroit Tigers before Opening Day with expectations of playing third base and second base in matchups against right-handed pitchers.
But McKinstry has played all over the field.
The 28-year-old has logged more innings in right field than any other position, but for Monday's series opener against the Kansas City Royals, the Tigers started McKinstry at shortstop — replacing Javier Báez — for the third time this season. Báez said he requested an off day to "clear my mind" amid season-long struggles.