Tigers' A.J. Hinch Announces Zach McKinstry News After Leaving Royals Game
The Detroit Tigers won their fifth consecutive game on Wednesday against the Kansas City Royals by a final score of 2-1. While the Tigers are hot and playing well after a sluggish start to the season, the night did not come without concern.
Utility man Zach McKinstry exited the game in the 8th inning with an apparent injury, creating an unwelcome development for a team finally finding its stride.
The 30-year-old has not had a strong start to the season, hitting .209 with a .261 on-base percentage, .587 OPS, one home run and five RBIs through his first 14 games. Still, he is capable of much more, as shown by his 2025 breakout season when he earned his first All-Star selection and Silver Slugger Award.
McKinstry suffered the injury during a collision with Royals outfielder Jac Caglianone in the top of the seventh inning while fielding a ground ball at third base.
When the Tigers took the field again, McKinstry had been replaced by Wenceel Perez, who entered the game batting seventh.
After the win, Tigers manager A.J. Hinch spoke with reporters and provided an update on McKinstry's status. Hinch announced that McKinstry suffered a bruised hip and will be listed as day-to-day.
He added that McKinstry will miss Thursday's series finale against Kansas City, though he had already been scheduled for an off day regardless, according to Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic.
A.J. Hinch said Zach McKinstry left with a bruised hip. He's day to day and was scheduled to be out of tomorrow's lineup anyway https://t.co/t5drDGf7IB
— Cody Stavenhagen (@CodyStavenhagen) April 16, 2026
The Tigers will hope McKinstry avoids a stint on the injured list and recovers quickly. His next chance to return to the lineup will come Friday on the road against the Boston Red Sox.
McKinstry has been a major part of Detroit's success over the past two seasons, helping the Tigers reach the postseason in back-to-back years.
His defensive versatility and ability to play multiple positions have allowed Hinch to construct favorable matchups and maximize the lineup on a daily basis. Detroit will need him healthy as they look to keep their winning streak alive and continue building momentum.
Related: Tigers Make Move After Justin Verlander's Injury
Copyright 2026 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
This story was originally published April 15, 2026 at 7:02 PM.