Tigers Depth Just Got a Surprising All-Star Upgrade

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kristie Ackert | Last updated Jul 9, 2025 6:56 PM ET

Zach McKinstry just got the call of a lifetime and the Tigers are getting another All-Star.

McKinstry, Detroit’s do-it-all utility man, has been named to the American League All-Star team as a replacement for Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena. He’ll head to Arlington as a reserve infielder, adding one more piece of Tigers blue to a team already stacked with Detroit talent.

It’s worth a moment to recognize a player who’s carved out his role the hard way. McKinstry didn’t start the season as a lock for the roster, but he’s turned into one of A.J. Hinch’s most trusted weapons. A left-handed hitter who can play just about every position, McKinstry has earned this shot with steady production and relentless hustle.

He goes into Wednesday night's game hitting .283 with seven home runs, 27 RBI, and 13 stolen bases in 84 games. His .357 OBP ranks among the highest on the team, and he’s come through in plenty of late-game moments for a club with October dreams. More importantly, he’s played second, third, shortstop, left field and right — exactly the kind of flexibility that’s earned him this All-Star nod.

Earlier this week, Tarik Skubal told reporters he thought the Tigers deserved more than four All-Stars. Now they’ve got five, and McKinstry’s addition only strengthens the argument that the team with the best record in baseball should be better represented.

It may have taken an injury to open the door, but McKinstry deserves to be honored.

It's the latest feel-good moment in a Tigers season that’s already full of them. Skubal is a Cy Young frontrunner. Javier Baez has reinvented himself into an All-Star outfielder. And now McKinstry, a guy who came into the season as a depth piece, will suit up alongside baseball’s biggest stars.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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