Detroit Tigers: 4 players with something to prove the rest of the season

The Detroit Tigers are at the stage of the season where it's time to find out what you have for next year. Despite taking three of four from the division-leading Twins this past week, they are still not really in contention.

The Tigers have plenty of players that are playing for their jobs next season. Several players need to end the season with a high note in order to have a chance at making the team in 2024.

Here are 4 Tigers with something to prove the remainder of the season

UTIL Zach McKinstry

It's been quite the rollercoaster for Zach McKinstry this season. When he was acquired right before the season, nobody took him seriously as a player. Then, starting in the middle of April, he went on a six-week heater.

For a brief period of time, McKinstry looked like an absolute steal. He was the quintessential leadoff hitter — or so we thought.

McKinstry has plummeted back down to earth. He's slashing .203/.234/.315 since the start of June. He's completely forgotten how to walk, which was a strength of his even when he was struggling to start the season.

Teams have figured out that he can't lay off breaking balls low and in, and they just spam that pitch. He just can't lay off. He needs to make that adjustment quick, or he could be out of a job by next spring.

Thankfully, he's off to a good start in that regard. He was 6-for-15 in that series against the Twins, including a three-hit game on Wednesday. That's the first good series he's had in a while. Hopefully that's the start of a turnaround.