With the Detroit Tigers signing Gleyber Torres to a one-year deal, former number-one pick Spencer Torkelson is now generating trade buzz. Torkelson sported a .219 batting average along with 10 home runs, 37 RBI and 75 hits for the Tigers last season. With the Tigers signing Torres and Colt Keith presumably shifting to first, this has left Torkelson’s role with the team somewhat unclear. Torkelson has many strong attributes that would be appealing to other teams such as his raw power, ability to draw walks through patient plate discipline, and solid footwork that adds to his athletic nature.
Spencer Torkelson landing spots: Four teams who could trade for former No. 1 pick and give him a second chance https://t.co/zafnAd2T6R
— CBS Sports MLB (@CBSSportsMLB) December 28, 2024
Tigers’ Spencer Torkelson Could Land With New Team via Trade
Arizona Diamondbacks
The Diamondbacks are certainly looking to compete in 2025 with the trade for Josh Naylor and the surprise signing of Corbin Burnes. Naylor arrived as the replacement of departing free agent Christian Walker. With Naylor becoming a free agent following the 2025 season, adding Torkelson would be a suitable option to place at first base. In addition, Torkelson can provide left-handed power for the Diamondbacks. His young presence would also fit well with a young core lineup with Gabriel Moreno, Zac Gallen, and Corbin Carroll. All three were a part of the Diamondbacks 2023 success making it to the World Series.
Seattle Mariners
The Mariners are looking for a first baseman and more offense for 2025, making Torkelson one option for them to explore. The 25-year-old would also be joining a clubhouse with a veteran presence, having Justin Turner to help mentor and guide younger players with his expertise and experience. Torkelson can provide the Mariners with an upgrade and depth that they need in their lineup.
Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pirates already acquired a first baseman by signing former Toronto Blue Jay Spencer Horwitz. However, this doesn’t mean they can’t add more depth to their lineup. But did the Pirates jump too quickly with signing Horwitz? Torkelson has a bit more MLB experience than Horwitz, with three seasons under his belt with the Tigers. Torkelson is also a solid defender and he smashed 31 home runs in 2023, making him the more powerful hitter. Horwitz was also initially traded to the Cleveland Guardians but was then traded to the Pirates one day later.
San Diego Padres
The Padres have first baseman Luis Arráez and they have yet to make a splash this offseason with a significant signing. If the Padres wanted to acquire Torkelson, they could accomplish this by simply making a position change with Arráez. He could be the designated hitter, giving leeway to Torkelson at first base. Torkelson is also from California, so he would be closer to his hometown of Petaluma…