The Detroit Tigers have gotten unexpectedly stellar performances this season from two unlikely contributors.
Enjoying a dream season, the Tigers sit comfortably atop the AL Central, well ahead of the competition. While their stars have delivered as expected, Detroit’s 2025 success goes beyond the usual suspects.
For a team to click the way the Tigers have, breakout performances from unexpected sources are crucial—and that’s exactly what’s happened. Two surprising players have stepped up in a big way, combining to lead Detroit to a 2-1 win over division rival Cleveland on Friday.
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One of those surprises is outfielder Wenceel Perez. After a rookie year in which his glove outshined his bat, he came into spring training facing long odds to make the roster. An early-season back injury further set him back, but Detroit stuck with him—and that patience has paid off.
In just 32 games, Perez has been electric, slashing .269/.316/.565 with seven home runs and 19 RBIs. On Friday, he contributed a solo homer and saved a run by throwing out Bo Naylor at the plate from right field.
Matching Perez’s impact is Zach McKinstry, Detroit’s do-it-all utility man. Once seen as a possible trade piece or roster casualty, McKinstry has cemented his value. He’s shined defensively—particularly at third base—and is having a breakout year at the plate, hitting .289/.361/.462 with six home runs and 26 RBIs across 80 games. He’s currently tracking toward a bWAR over 5.0.
Perez and McKinstry’s emergence has been nothing short of remarkable, and they’ve played a huge role in Detroit’s rise. With performances like these from previously overlooked players, the Tigers could be on the verge of something special.
As the season heads into its most critical stretch, these two under-the-radar stars are worth watching closely.
