Tim Rogers
Before the second game of the Freeway Series with the Angels, it was announced that Zach McKinstry has made the Opening Day roster for the Dodgers.
Doc makes it official and names McKinstry to the Opening Day roster as well.
— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) March 30, 2021
Barring any injuries, it looks like McKinstry will be the only rookie to make the Opening Day roster. Last season the Dodgers had so many players exceed their rookie limits including Dustin May, Tony Gonsolin, Dennis Santana, Victor Gonzalez, Brusdar Graterol, Gavin Lux, and Edwin Rios. That is one heck of a rookie class. Even with losing so many free agents, the Dodgers really don’t have room for rookies. However, Zach McKinstry has broken through.
For the Spring (not including the final two games), McKinstry slashed .293/.310/.390 (AVG/OBP/SLG) while playing all over the field. The tools he brings on offense include being able to see a lot of pitches and putting the bat on the ball. So far we have not seen much power but he hit 19 home runs during the 2019 season in Double-A and Triple-A.
The main weapon he brings though is the ability to play all over the field. His best position is second base but he is also making himself into a decent outfielder. Even with the Dodgers already having Edwin Rios and Matt Beaty as left-handed bats off of the bench, McKinstry provides too much value to leave down in Triple-A.
Scouting Report
According to the scouting report on MLB Pipeline, this is what McKinstry brings to the offensive side of the game:
Once he added some muscle and some loft to his left-handed swing, McKinstry developed solid raw power. He had become more aggressive at the plate, yet still makes consistent contact and draws his share of walks. He displays solid speed from home to first but it doesn’t translate into stolen bases.
On defense MLB Pipeline states:
McKinstry’s quickness and plus arm strength give him the versatility to play all over the diamond and he saw action at six different positions in 2019. He’s a solid defender at second base (his best and primary position), similar if somewhat erratic at third base, capable at shortstop and inexperienced but able to fill in at all three outfield spots.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations to Zach McKinstry on making the Opening Day roster. This is exciting for any rookie and we cannot wait to see his contributions to the Dodgers in 2021.
