The Detroit Tigers are seen as a serious contender in the American League, but that only happens if they stay healthy. On Wednesday evening, the ball club was dealt a scare when utilityman Zach McKinstry exited early following a collision while charging a ground ball, ultimately suffering a hip injury.
Tigers manager AJ Hinch gave an update on McKinstry on Thursday prior to Detroit’s series finale against the Kansas City Royals, and it appears the 30-year-old is dealing with multiple injuries. He also hurt his shoulder and chest in Wednesday’s contest.
“He’s pretty banged up,” Hinch said, via Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press. “We’re going to continue to get him looked at even further. He’s not moving around great today. We got to make sure we check all the body parts.”
Zach McKinstry Listed Day-to-Day For Detroit Tigers
GettyZach McKinstry #39 of the Detroit Tigers (R) and Jac Caglianone #14 of the Kansas City Royals collide as McKinstry fields the ball during the top of the seventh inning at Comerica Park on April 15, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan. All players are wearing the number 42 in honor of Jackie Robinson Day. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
While McKinstry was already set for a day off on Thursday, Hinch made it clear that he’s banged up all over, and there is some concern about his status.
“There are a lot of different things going,” Hinch continued. “When you look at the exit of the game, he banged his hip, and then you go back in time, you realize the slide at home was pretty violent and the mini-collision at third base was a little bit of an issue.”
If McKinstry does indeed head to the 10-day IL, the Tigers could promote either Jace Jung, Trei Cruz, or Hao-Yu Lee, Petzold noted. However, none of them have had much success this season in Triple-A Toledo.
McKinstry’s Versatility is a Valuable Asset
GettyRicardo Cespedes #88 of Dominican Republic slides into second base as Zach McKinstry #39 of the Detroit Tigers throws the ball during an exhibition game at Estadio Quisqueya on March 04, 2026 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images)
McKinstry may not be a star, but his ability to play all over the diamond is key for Detroit. He’s split most of his time in 2026 at second base, third base, and in right field. However, it’s been a bit of a slow start for McKinstry offensively, batting just .209 with one home run.
While it’s still at the early stages of McKinstry’s various injuries, we should get some more clarity on his status in the coming days. The Toledo, Ohio native had his best season to date in 2025, clubbing 12 home runs and batting .259.
With a long season ahead, The Tigers are smart to be cautious with McKinstry. After all, it’s only April, and what’s important is his long-term health.
Detroit is currently sitting at 9-9 in the AL Central, and they’ve been hot lately, winning five straight. Rookie phenom Kevin McGonigle, who has been playing shortstop, shifted over to the hot corner after McKinstry departed, and he’s starting at third in Thursday’s rubber match as well.
Tigers’ AJ Hinch Provides Worrying Injury Update on Key Utility Player