Zach McKinstry was selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 33rd round of the 2016 MLB Draft and once appeared to be an heir apparent to Kiké Hernandez in a super utility role. However, the 27-year-old only appeared in 60 games during the 2021 season and never quite gained traction this year.
McKinstry collected just one hit — a home run — in 14 plate appearances with the club while driving in two RBI and drawing three walks over 10 games. He seemingly was behind Eddy Alvarez on the Dodgers depth chart and didn’t get many opportunities despite his ability to play all over the diamond.
McKinstry was sent to the Chicago Cubs at the MLB trade deadline in exchange for Chris Martin. While he received more opportunities with his new club, he continued to struggle at the plate.
McKinstry hit just .206/.272/.361 with six doubles, three doubles, four home runs and 12 RBI in 171 plate appearances for the Cubs (47 games). He did accumulate 0.5 WAR, but it was largely due to his defensive contributions.
After the trade, McKinstry thanked Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman, general manager Brandon Gomes, manager Dave Roberts, organization as a whole and fans in an Instagram post.
Over parts of three seasons with the Dodgers, McKinstry batted .210/.266/.403 with 10 doubles, eight home runs and 31 RBI across 193 plate appearances (74 games).
Zach McKinstry 2022 highlight
McKinstry enjoyed his best game of the 2022 season as a member of the Dodgers when he went 1-for-4 with a home run and two RBI against the New York Mets on June 3.
McKinstry found more success with the Cubs, going 4-for-5 with a double and triple against the San Francisco Giants on September 11.
2023 outlook
McKinstry remains under contract with the Cubs and isn’t due to become a free agent until after the 2027 season. He won’t be eligible for salary arbitration until after the 2024 season.
Given his versatility, speed and extra-base potential, it wouldn’t be a surprise if McKinstry breaks camp with the Cubs next season. He does not have any Minor League options remaining.
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