The Detroit Tigers closed out the 2024 season on a hot streak, largely thanks to strong pitching, even though their offense continued to struggle. After falling short in the ALDS, many expected the Tigers to make a splash in the offseason. While they did make some key additions, the blockbuster move never came. Still, in 2025, the Tigers have emerged as one of the top teams in baseball — and this time, it’s the offense leading the way.

One of the biggest surprises has been Zach McKinstry, who is enjoying a breakout season. In 2024, McKinstry hit just .215 with four home runs, 23 RBIs, and a .614 OPS over 118 games. This season, however, he’s turned things around in a big way. Through 78 games, McKinstry is batting .290 with five home runs, 25 RBIs, and an impressive .816 OPS. Tigers manager AJ Hinch praised his performance, saying, “I’m pretty much president of the Zach McKinstry fan club. I love this guy. I play him all the time. I trust him. He’s really good defensively and he’s a really tough at-bat. He’s arguably our best baserunner. I think he can help us win, which is why I keep putting him in there.”

Detroit is currently in a three-game set against the Washington Nationals. The teams split a doubleheader on Wednesday, with the Tigers winning Game 1 thanks in part to McKinstry’s 4-for-5 showing at the plate.

McKinstry isn’t alone in stepping up this season. Several Tigers have already surpassed their home run and RBI totals from last year. Riley Greene is another standout. While he hasn’t yet exceeded his 2024 numbers, he’s getting close — and considering he was already one of Detroit’s top hitters last season, that’s saying something.

“He’s Riley Greene,” said Hinch. “He gives you these bursts of huge performances. He rarely slumps. He shows up every day, works hard, and wants to be great. He handles the toughest matchups in the biggest moments and keeps finding good pitches to hit.”

Greene was key in Wednesday’s Game 1 win, blasting two three-run homers to lead the Tigers to an 11-2 victory. His continued excellence has been a major factor in Detroit’s success this year.

With players like McKinstry and Greene leading the charge, the Tigers are looking to close out their series against the Nationals on a high note. The rubber match is set for Thursday evening at 6:45 ET at Nationals Park. Dietrich Enns will take the mound for Detroit, while Jake Irvin will start for Washington.