The Tigers rearranged their infield when they signed Gleyber Torres last month. He’ll play second base, a move that pushes Colt Keith to first base. The trickle-down effect is to block the clearest path to at-bats for 2020 first overall pick Spencer Torkelson.
As one would expect, Detroit’s baseball operations president Scott Harris pushed back against the idea that adding Torres squeezed Torkelson out of the picture. “My message to Tork was: ’if you have a big offseason and a big Spring Training, there’s a role for you on this team.’ This team needs more right-handed power and we’ve seen Tork do that in the past,” Harris said last month.
That may be true, but it’s also not difficult to imagine a change-of-scenery trade. In an MLBTR poll last week, a plurality of respondents felt that Torkelson would be dealt before Opening Day. At times, he has flashed the power that made him a top pick. He hit 31 homers in 2023. While his overall batting line wasn’t great, a .238/.318/.498 showing in that season’s second half provided hope that he’d taken a step forward. Even if he didn’t look like an all-around impact bat, he showed the potential for plus power. Torkelson’s production tanked in 2024, as he hit just .219/.295/.374 with 10 longballs over 92 MLB games. He spent more than a third of the season in Triple-A, where he drew a ton of walks but struck out at a 31% clip.
This may be the last opportunity for the Tigers to recoup anything of note in a Torkelson trade. While he certainly doesn’t have the value he had during his prospect days, Detroit would find some interest if they shopped him. Another down year could make him a DFA or non-tender candidate as he heads into what’d be his first year of arbitration. It’s possible Torkelson spends enough time in the minors this year that he doesn’t reach arbitration, but that would burn his last option season. If the Tigers keep him in Triple-A for that long, they’d be hard-pressed to carry him on the 2026 Opening Day roster.
Which teams are best suited to take a flier on Torkelson? Every team could theoretically fit, since he’s set for a salary around the league minimum and has one minor league option remaining. Still, it doesn’t make much sense for a team that has both first base and designated hitter solidified (i.e. Astros, Dodgers, Braves) to give up anything of note just to keep Torkelson in Triple-A. We’re looking for clubs that could realistically give him 400 or more plate appearances going into a make-or-break year.
Best Fits (listed alphabetically)
- Giants: San Francisco has been loosely tied to Pete Alonso this offseason. While it seems they’re reluctant to make a multi-year commitment at first base, they’ve looked for ways to add power. Installing a potential 30-homer bat at shortstop in Willy Adames helps, but the Giants are lacking pop in their first base/designated hitter mix. LaMonte Wade Jr. is an OBP-focused hitter who has come up in trade rumors. The Giants could use a committee approach at DH with the likes of Wilmer Flores, Brett Wisely and former top prospect Marco Luciano. While Torkelson would add another right-handed bat to a lineup that skews to that side, he carries a higher ceiling than Flores provides at this stage of his career. Wade will be a free agent next offseason, so there’s room for both Torkelson and top prospect Bryce Eldridge as a long-term first base/DH combination if both players work out.
- Mariners: Seattle’s only acquisition of note this offseason is the signing of Donovan Solano to a $3.5MM free agent deal. He’s a righty hitter who may spend the majority of his time at first base. Solano is a part-time player who has only reached 400 plate appearances in a season once. He’s going into his age-37 campaign. Solano can factor in at second and third base, neither of which are settled in Seattle. The M’s could find at-bats for Torkelson, especially if they offload part of the Mitch Haniger or Mitch Garver salaries via trade, though his kind of power-over-hit approach hasn’t traditionally played well at T-Mobile Park.
- Marlins: Most of the time, these trade fit exercises focus on competitive teams. Rebuilding clubs don’t often acquire major league talent. Torkelson’s four years of contractual control make this a different situation. If Miami still feels he’s a long-term regular, there’s a straightforward case for taking a flier. The Marlins could play Torkelson regularly for a season or two and market him as a more valuable trade chip down the line. If he flops, it’s not likely that they’ve taken at-bats away from any core pieces. Presumptive first baseman Jonah Bride hit well over 272 plate appearances last season, but he’s 29 years old and has a career .232/.325/.342 slash line in the majors. Deyvison De Los Santos could get at-bats at DH if the Fish want to give him a look.
- Padres: San Diego has yet to make a payroll-clearing trade from their infield. If they don’t, they’ll run things back with Luis Arraez at first base. They don’t have anyone slated for regular DH work, though, and payroll space is limited. Torkelson would be an affordable bat they could plug in there to divide time with Arraez between first base and designated hitter.
- Rockies: The Miami logic applies to the Rockies — arguably even more so. Former first-round pick Michael Toglia is a career .206/.287/.406 hitter. He hit 25 homers but struck out in almost a third of his plate appearances last year. He’s not demonstrably better than Torkelson, at least, and the Rox could be intrigued by the latter’s power upside at Coors Field. The DH spot is open after Charlie Blackmon’s retirement. Colorado can’t rely on Kris Bryant to stay healthy.
Plausible Long Shots
- Blue Jays: Toronto has kicked around the idea of playing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at third base more often. They don’t have a clear option for regular DH work. That Pete Alonso is on their radar suggests they’re not opposed to adding a first baseman. That could be an approach specific to Alonso rather than a buy-low candidate like Torkelson, though.
- Brewers: Milwaukee doesn’t have room for Torkelson right now. They’d no doubt love to offload a good portion of Rhys Hoskins’ $18MM salary. That’s easier than done, but if they line up a Hoskins deal, they could view Torkelson as a viable (and much more affordable) target to backfill first base.
- Reds: Cincinnati’s infield has gone from a perceived area of depth to its most significant weakness within a year. They’ve already attempted to address it this offseason with the acquisition of Gavin Lux to rotate between second and third base. First base remains a big question mark after Christian Encarnacion-Strand’s injury-plagued season and the down year from Jeimer Candelario. There’s enough rebound potential with both players that the Reds may not feel Torkelson is an upgrade, but it should at least be on the table.
- Twins: Minnesota is looking for a right-handed bat. That’s likelier to come in the outfield, but they also haven’t addressed first base since losing Carlos Santana to free agency. Torkelson could compete with Jose Miranda and Edouard Julien for reps between first and DH. Intra-division trades are rarely easy to pull off, especially when both teams are aiming for a playoff spot. However, a Torkelson trade would be (at least to an extent) an acknowledgement on Detroit’s part that they don’t believe he’ll be the player he was expected to become as a prospect. That could reduce their hesitancy about moving him to another AL Central team.
Tork for Arenado’s full contract. Done.
Roth, not done. First, will be agree to go to Detroit? Second, you don’t think a better offer is out there?
The Tigers could overpay to lock down 3rd and have a workaholic, future HoF veteran in the clubhouse. The Tigers have too much uncertainty on the left side of the infield. Also, adding an elite glove would help the pitchers develop.
Roth, but he has a no trade. I don’t recall him including Detroit on his list. Second, St. Louis will likely agree to pay down the deal to get players back. Torkelson at this point has no value in my opinion.
FYI Arenado has accepted Detroit as a destination but fat chance that happens.
Illitch is the cheapest owner in sports. He’s not going to allow Harris to take on that kind of money. If Tork gets traded it’s going to be for single A talent.
Why would the Cards be interested in such a one dimensional player? They already have that.
Hilarity is thinking the Tigers’ ownership would take on Arenado’s full contract for any reason. Even for nothing it’s laughable.
They’ll stash Torkelson at Toledo before paying anybody anything in a trade.
That doesn’t mean the shouldn’t. In fact, they should pay him to totally waive the NT clause, get a prospect for taking him, then trade him for a prospect mid season…..
That plan is rife with horror.
Detroit will not net a cargohaul of prospects for a miserable old guy owed tens of $M’s who’s hitting .087 at Comerica Ice Arena and by May lost his job to Zach McKinstry.
Miserable old guy? Tell us why you say that?
Tork, Montero and Manning for Suarez and Cease. SD would have their cheap,controllable replacements for Cease, King and Arraez. If they still even needed to trade Arraez and King.
Inkije the players you are suggesting from SD but I expect they would want more.
Tork, Mize and Brieske plus a lotto ticket like Campos is probably closer. Probably lay needs another arm like Lockhart or Hamm.
Tork and Mize for Cease alone would be fine by me.
I’d like to get Suarez too, but if we did something like
Torkelson and Mize….
we might be able to get one year of Dylan Cease…who we can put the franchise tag on (or whatever they call it) at the end of the season and recoup some draft equity.
The Tigers should offer Jace Jung and something to the Mariners for Luis Castillo too.
There’s no chance the Tigers take on a huge contract. No chance.
Where is the rest of the list? Wouldn’t the Mets be a possible landing spot?
Anthony Franco said in his chat that he doesn’t think Alonso will resign. Why not list the Mets here Franco??? This is your article.
Sorry that was Mark Polishik who said Alonso will not get resigned by the Mets.
I can’t understand why the Mets aren’t on here either. They would absolutely take a flier on a former 1st rounder w pop
Because the Mets would probably prefer to move Vientos over to first base then
A) use Mauricio/Baty at third
B) sign Bregman for third
Neither require trade cost and seem to be better option than a guy that couldn’t cut it in minors.
P.s.
add in the outside chance of Alonso reunion and I can see why Mets aren’t listed.
Or trade Baty in a deal for Torkelson and keep Vientos at 3rd?
Baty would not interest the Tigers. He’s a poor 3B who hasn’t hit. Ibanez is a better platoon option for Jung, than Baty, and he’s a low bar. Love him as a pinch hitter tho.
Vierling is set to platoon with Jung. The Tigers would have to look at a change of scenery guy like Baty, a lower tier prospect or maybe someone like Montgomery who has a bad contract in a larger package. They are trading someone with issues so they can’t expect anyone to break the bank. I’d rather see them grab a bounce back candidate like Monty or a fellow change of scenery candidate with potential upside like Baty.
Tork,Montero and Manning for Suarez and Cease. SD has their cheap, controllable replacements for Cease and Arraez and King. If they still wanted/needed to trade Arraez and/or King.
He wouldn’t replace Vientos or Baty.
He’s only 25 years old former top ranked prospect, with 4 more years of control, who still has a minor league option, who has a power upside.
That has value regardless of how quickly fans want to label a guy a flame out.
There’s no place for him in Detroit we might be able to get him for cheap. I dk why anybody would get upset if we flipped Dom Hamel or Kevin Parada for him.
I’m not even saying they should, I’m saying he should be on this list because it’s been rumored and there’s a nonzero chance of occurring
Parada could be interesting.
@MC Beach
I’m not really impressed by Baty, but I could handle Torkelson being traded in a package for Seattle’s Castillo. I just don’t see Baty solving 3B for the Tigers. As you say, they already have platoon options in Vierling, and Ibanez, who likely provide similar production, and defense. I’d like an upgrade.
Robert Suarez an NL All Star Closer
and a #1 starter Dylan Cease
(+ A NL top 5 voting for Cy Young multiple times in the last 5 years)
For RHSP Manning who cannot stay healthy and whose
has had trouble pitching at the major league level based on performance,
1B/DH Torkleson who is one season from being DFAed
And RHSP Keider Montero a lottery ticket young pitcher who is not yet established himself as a bona fide major league starter?
that is a true “homer trade”
that is a giveaway of great established talented’
for 3 question marks?!
Any GM who made that deal should be fired.
I’d much prefer the Castillo deal you are talking about as well. It’d probably cost Lee or Jung as well but Castillo would be worth it.
I agree that Baty is only a maybe.
I agree the Tigers would need to add much more.
@Mets
Better in- house options and Totk is a poor replacement for Alonzo?
Agree with you Knicks
Wouldn’t mind stashing him in AAA tho
Torkelson < Baty
They won’t pay for Monty.
They’ve shown flashes and it’s only a year to Cease. Idk how long before Suarez reaches FA. That’s just a starting proposal anyway.
Is this the Onion satire site?!
A few people got off on the wrong floor of the elevator lol!
Would Mets fans be willing to give up real prospects to get Torkelson?
Torkelson isn’t going to take that much to trade for him.
I mean, they can just keep him in the minors for another year. I don’t think they’re just gonna give him away yet. Could be wrong.
They aren’t giving him away. He would go for either another reclamation project or a prospect in the 15-20 range.
Mutts are waiting for Vlad Jr.
OLD DORK
They are the Mets, not the Mutts. Currently there are no MLB teams with that name. Maybe you’re watching something other than baseball but thinking you’re watching baseball, which would make sense based on accuracy of your comments.
@rhandome They would not. Neither would Stearns. Even when he hit 31 HR Torkelson’s overall game was weaker than Alonso’s.
Tork has never had a 2-win season. He’s never had even a 1-win season by bWAR.
A good ST wouldn’t move him up on the Mets’ Depth Chart. He’s not going to keep Vientos’ glove at 3B and block Acuna-Mauricio-Baty’s avenue to playing time at third and the opportunity to give the Mets value and the possibility of 5-6 seasons of a competent MLB regular.
Why? To play a bad-fielding 1Bman, a 1-dimensional slugger who doesn’t get on base or do anything well except hit dingers one season? If they can add him for little and stash him in the upper minors and see if they can’t turn him into a patient DH and backup’s backup 1Bman, sure. Why not?
At least MLBTR’s list of destinations may lessen casual Mets fans prating about The Next Big Thing (of the day).
Tork shouldn’t take real prospects.
Not a good fit for Mets. Their goal is playoffs. They want real options. Tork isn’t good enough. Has no value to Mets or anyone unless they can improve him. If they can fine. If not he isn’t a fit.
“Tork shouldn’t take real prospects.”
Which is why I think they should hold on to him. Trading now is selling low. He may never reclaim the value he had before, but there’s a chance he could bounce back. If I’m a Tiger’s fan, I’d just as soon see him bounce back with Detroit. If no bounce back, they nontender him.
Preferring Keith at 1b tells how they think of him. I think of him as a poor mans Alonso. Why I had no interest in Pete. To really want Tork you would have to be able to out develop Detroit. And even if you see something you aren’t going to want to pay for it. And teams most likely to give him the playing time aren’t trying to contend so they won’t want to pay much.
Goldschmidt
Santana
Horowitz
Naylor
Lowe
Bellinger
Parades
Alonso
Diaz
Cronenworth
Arraez
Last 3 may not be easily available but still if teams really wanted a 1b they had a lot of good options.
They need to play him and let Tork get ABs.
Playing him part-time will not help him “break out”.
That’s a popular belief, but Tork has gotten plenty of ABs. At some point, if a guy wants playing time, he has to earn it. The Tigers are hoping for a bounce back, not necessarily a break out, but he has to do that in ST or AAA if he wants more playing time. That time is too valuable to a team to waste on a someone who continues to be unproductive.
Not the pirates, huh?
I agree… Perfect fit for the Pirates.
The Pirates have had success with their Joey Bart reclamation so far. They could try again with Torkelson.
I think the Pirates have Spencer Horwitz at 1B headed into ST. It’s his job to lose, but acquiring Torkelson to compete with him isn’t a bad idea. Just gotta find him ABs somehow if they both have solid springs.
Pirates teaching someone to hit. That will be the day.
You’re right. The Rays they ain’t when it comes to turning a sow’s ear into a silk purse.
If he couldn’t get 400 AB’s in Pittsburgh it ain’t happening anywhere.
Ship over your 3B Hayes in an exchange of attitudes. Nice change of scenery trade. Expand it to include Bednar and minor leaguers heading back the other way from the Tigers.
Henry Davis for Tork?
I don’t see how Davis fits the Tigers.
Tork is out of Detroit, have two 1B/C prospects who seem to be much better hitters. Sadly it looks like both of the Tigers 1/1 picks will be busts.
And they still have what, 7 top 100 prospects? Crazy.
He’ll turn 26 in August. Despite his youth, 2025 is probably a pivotal season in his career.
El, he really has little value right now and both he and the club are better off hoping he finds himself. Right now, he’s basically Bobby Dalbec from last year. A guy who looks good in uniform and who a few years ago seemed to have his whole career in front of him.
I agree. There are several guys like that in MLB right now, once-touted prospects who are reaching a pivotal point. Gavin Lux and Luis Campusano immediately come to mind. I’m not sure if Alex Verdugo and Amed Rosario qualify at this point. MLBTR can create a worthwhile story about such players.
Of course, now and then, one of those guys seizes the opportunity and starts producing. Joey Bart was in that spot a year ago and appears to have turned it around. He’s probably one of the Pirates’ best players (no jokes, please).
Bart will be interesting to see if he can build in 24.
Yep. I was happy for him. Much-maligned in San Francisco, he’s starting to show he belongs. A feel-good story. I had mixed emotions during his at-bats against the Dodgers; I wanted him to succeed, just not at that moment.
What do you make of the Verdugo market?
Maybe to MIA or TB on a one year deal. Verdugo bombed in NY, but he could still salvage himself in a small market, but he’ll have to take a modest prove it contract.
He will be a pivotal case for Harris. Going into the off season, the Tigers major need was RH power. Harris has not really addressed that by hoping on Torres. Torres has the higher floor, but the Tigers need Torkelson’s ceiling. If he takes a low ball offer and then Torkelson thrives elsewhere, it could cost him his job, but at least put him on the hot seat. Trading away the skills your team needs is not wise, especially if you haven’t replaced them. I could see Torkelson providing similar production to Alonso, at a lot less money.
@stymeedone
It’s easy to understand why Harris would balk at trading him. Make someone else look like a genius and yourself look like a fool. I’m putting Torkelson on my list of intriguing players to watch in 2025. That means I will be rooting for him.
Except Tork hasn’t shown he can provide that production, even when he hit 30 + HRs he wasnt that great. Rob Deer could hit HRs too but not really a guy you want for a winning team. He earned his demotion last year and appears to have worn out his welcome. He needs a change and hopefully they give it to him and he succeeds elsewhere.
Other than the Erod mess, Harris has done quite well in trades.
I also recall hearing reports that Tork was borderline “uncoachable.” Head cases rarely manage to extract their skulls from their asses. I say we HOPE Tork tears it up in S/T, then trade him for whatever we can get.
I don’t understand how sports fans can brand someone they’ve never met as a “head case.” It’s a negative cliche used by people who don’t know who or what they are talking about.
Stop being a “head case” about it Kabong! 😉
Why yoooooo! I oughta murder-lize ya. Nyuk, nyuk, nyuk.
Jury is still out. Some of his prospects acquired could still work out, but Vierling, still a platoon player, is all he has to show for Soto, who was a two time LH All Star closer with team control. Not impressive. What trade(s) do you think he has done well with?
He won the Soto trade. Vierlibg gas produced more than Soto since the trade. You only seem to remember the best years of ex-Tigers.
Liranzo and Sweeney for Flaherty. Lee for Lorenzen. Both of those SP signings worked out well and allowed them to add long term pieces.
Or maybe, they have the wrong people coaching him.
It’s kind of weird that you didn’t even mention the Mets in this article.
@Art Shamsky What’s really kind of weird is that anyone thinks with a good spring training Torkelson is going to somehow convince the Mets to keep Vientos’ glove at 3B where he’s in the lowest 6th percentile by OAA, and where Mark would block the Mets current best three young players in terms of helping the team meaningfully _both_ in MLB in 2025, and beyond.
Jack, I’m not a fan of the move at all. It’s just strange not to mention the Mets as even an outside possibility when they’re like the only team that’s actually known to have had discussions with Detroit about him.
I wonder if the Tigers would accept Sean Bouchard + a low level prospect for Torkelson. The Rockies need to thin out their outfield mix since they have 9 on the 40 man roster at the moment.
Tigers OF currently has Greene, Meadows, Carpenter, Vierling, Perez, Malloy, and McKinstry/Kreidler as depth. Some kid named Clark is like 1-2 years away.
@ stymeed
But only Meadows, Greene, Vierling, and Perez are actually decent defensive outfielders.. But, I agree it’s not their biggest area of need/concern. They need more starting pitching. I’m really hoping for at least one trade or free agent signing.
Tork for Doval. Headcase for Headcase.
If that’s true, then one headcase is better than the other, so it’s still a mismatch in value. Doval should bring back a better return than Tork.
Not based on last year’s performance.
True. But not based on their career numbers.
Tork, 3 years , -0.3 bWAR
Doval 4 years, 3.4 bWAR
Tork is just a “change of scenery”
candidate, “head case” is too strong a statement.
Some players thrive with different coaches/different approaches.
Players are human.
Sometimes, one size or method of coaching does not fit all players and their personalities,
Seattle or San Diego for one of their starting pitchers (obviously the Tigers would have to include more) makes the most sense. The flip side could be to Arizona for Montgomery and a minor leaguer, in which the Tigers wouldn’t have to include anyone else
I like the Arizona fit. SD in a bigger package for Cease would be interesting too.
Hard pass. We already have two RH bats with holes in them, and he isn’t worth one of our SP’s
Tokleson for Baty. Who hangs up?
Baty has a lot more upside.
No clue why you think Baty has more upside. Torkelson has hit 30 homers in the big leagues.
Because that’s all that he is. All or nothing homerun hitter. Baty has the potential to be an all around hitter and is versatile enough to be moved around the field.
Baty hasn’t done squat. At least Torkelson has proven he can hit big league pitching. Baty hasn’t proven anything.
While I agree Baty hasn’t done squat, Tork hasn’t proven any such thing, except in one outlier season. It’s very common to have young players hit well, until the pitchers find their weaknesses. The guys that can hit MLB pitching are the ones that are able to adjust. So far Tork hasn’t.
BITA, proven at one time he could hit a homer. Like Bobby Dalbec. Tork has one more option but will likely be released after this year if he doesn’t turn it around.
Outlier season? That was 1 year out of his 2 and a half year career. You don’t know if it’s an outlier or not. He’s proven he can do it. Baty has not.
Again, he hasn’t proven anything. Outlier or not, good production in one season, which he hasn’t been able to sustain, is not proof of anything, except that he was able to hit that one season. That was before the pitchers adjusted. Might he be able to adjust? I don’t know, but so far he hasn’t been able to. But any value he has right now is tied to his performance in 2024
Why bring up Baty? That trade wasn’t my suggestion, nor do I think Baty is very good at all, as I said earlier.
That’s not clear (of the two Tork’s the only one who has actually succeeded at the plate by any measure in MLB), but just as an average fielding 3Bman vs a 1Bman who was -7 OAA in 2023 (and par in his shorter 2024 season), Baty’s already about 12-18 runs ahead of Torkelson—12 runs for the positional adjustment, 3B vs 1B, and 0 to 6 runs by converted OAA, where it’s probably more the latter.
JackStrawb, I assume you’re responding to @BITA, and not me. My post really had nothing to do with Baty, or the comparison between the two. My post was only about the assertion that Tork has proven he can hit MLB pitching.
Since when? Baty is in the exact same boat.
Detroit. Baty is not a 3B, and they can’t play him at 2B or 1B even as a platoon. The Tigers already have Vierling and Ibanez, who are just as good an option.
You have to trust your scouts and analytical team What do they think has the better upside. The idea seems reasonable I haven’t seen enough video of Tork how is he defensively?
Seen highlight plays of Tork’s Defense.
He can definitely play good D @ 1B
He just needs to get his bat straightened out at the MLB level
to be a major league starter.
Gonna take issue with your Rockies suggestion. Toglia figured it out last year to at least some degree, was a league average hitter (and an excellent defender at first who can also play some RF). Tork was a considerably worse player last year and is the same age. Toglia’s also a switch-hitter. No fit there at all. You are right that Bryant might as well be penciled into the IL, but they’ve got a bunch of kids coming up who need PA’s, with higher ceilings than Tork.
You are correct. Toglia did enough to get a full year to prove himself. And he played every single day once he got the job. That deserves consideration in this day and age as well.
Getting Torkelson would basically be for DH, but Bryant isn’t going anywhere and will have the job because he is being paid too much. You cannot acquire somewhere just because KB might get hurt. There are way too many other holes on the team to try and do that.
Although I still think a Bryant for Baez deal might work out too if you can work out the no trade clause. Maybe Bryant and Bouchard/Nolan Jones for Baez and Tork. No money changing hands.
I like that deal. Two change of scenery candidates going each way. Bryant and Jones…hmmm. I’d live to see Baez shipped out.
The rockies are not going to part with Nolan Jones. The cardinals aren’t likely lo part with Lars nootbar either
Jones had enough of a step back that I think his long term viability is in question. Even the Rockies announcers said so, without really saying so toward the end of the year. They talk about the positions that are set for the future being CF with Doyle, SS with Tovar, and 1B with Toglia. I thought it was somewhat telling that Jones, McMahon, and Rodgers were left off that grouping. Rodgers has already been non-tendered and it wouldn’t surprise me to see McMahon dealt at the deadline this season.m especially if he has a strong first half.
The Rockies have a LOT of outfielders in the fold, If you figure that Doyle has one spot locked down, that leaves two spots for 8 other guys on the 40 man roster. Jordan Beck will likely get one spot unless he flops in ST. That leaves Nolan Jones, Sean Bouchard, Greg Jones, Sam Hilliard, Yanquiel Fernandez, and Zac Veen. Hilliard is likely a 4th OF. Greg Jones is likely a IF/OF utility guy. I think Jones has a leg up right now, but would be easily replaceable.
Tork for Henry Davis and Ovedio
Pirates shouldn’t have any interest in Tork unless it’s for dfa price. Davis worth much more. Oviedo worth much more.
What has Davis done to be worth anything?
He didn’t need to do anything. You would simply be taking advantage of the Pirates awful development. He has the talent. Just needs a team to produce it. Pretty much any other team. Why he hasn’t been traded yet. If he finds success elsewhere Nutting will fire the gm. He’s extremely late to react but things like that wake him up. His minor league numbers are great. Just needs a mlb shot. A team who doesn’t play the shell of Grandpal Cutch over their #1 pick. Hopefully don’t throw him in outfield.
Davis hasn’t done anything, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t have value. He’s a 25 year old catcher. Catcher is the hardest position on the field, with more to learn by far, than any other. Catchers typically develop at a later age than any other position. Bart didn’t break out until his age 27 season. The Pirates would be nuts to trade Davis for Tork.
They shifted him to the OF though at one point. I thought Endy was better regarded at catcher which is why Davis was shifted to the grass? Tork has at least shown something in MLB. Davis has not. They could both still end up as productive players but I don’t see one being worth much more than the other.
Tork has shown something. Shown he strikes out a bit too much and doesn’t walk nearly enough.
There both failed prospects. But 1 has 1300 ab and 1 has 300. 1 plays 1b and 1 plays c. Not equal players.
They didn’t shift him to outfield. They just threw him out there. He looked like you just took a catcher and threw him out there. No natural.
Endy is better defender. Davis could be average. Could have been above average if he has any instruction from Pirates. Endy can actually play outfield 1b even 2b if needed.
Davis is nothing. If he hits he can catch. He isn’t good enough to play anywhere if he doesn’t hit.
Tork to the Marlins even up for J. Bride. Johna is a better hitter with a sweet swing and equal do Spencer in the field. He is like 3 years older but a better choice for Detroit.
Bride is 29, Tork has a 30 HR season under his belt and the Tigers just handed 1B to Keith. Why would they do that?
Couple of reasons. Bride’s stroke is really clean he can DH and add some real poke to the line up. Colt Keith is likely to replaced at 1st base in close late games for defence.
Forgot to mention that Bride has played more games at 3b than 1st and some at 2nd,too. It might be better for Tork a new team and city.
I’m rather surprised the Angels didn’t make this list.
Tork has more way upside (i.e. 2023) than these possible trades. Better to attempt rehab of this player and either keep him or cut him afterward.
Tork to Padres for Cronenworth. Padres save on Cronenworth’s contract and he goes home to Michigan.
Tigers have more than enough 2B options this year and beyond, This trade would not make sense for them.
Cronenworth has played more 1B the last two seasons than 2B. I was thinking more he play 1B for the Twins, but idk if Colt Keith is a serious option or not.
He is a serious option only because Harris says he is. I think Keith’s bat plays better at 2B than 1B. Harris was able to sign Torres reasonably, though, so musical chairs it is. If Keith was horrible at 2B, I would understand this. However he improved throughout the year and finished about average. Has any other team extended a pre arb player, and then bounced him all over the diamond, like the Tigers are doing with Keith? 3B to 2B to 1B? Did it work out well?
][V][ GO BLUE !!
hellsbells51, I think you underestimate just how bad the Cronenworth deal is. The Padres would probably love to move him, but I don’t think it’s a mystery why there are no rumors about a potential Cronenworth trade, let alone any reported interest at all from other teams.
Jean, there were many rumors on here early in the offseason regarding Cronenworth before their GM shot them down.
Not sure how accurate your memory is. I did a search, and there was one article from earlier this month that SD had received trade interest in Cronenworth. Who knows how valid that rumor was.
The next post was from 12/2023 about a rumor of trade talks between the Padres and Jays for Cronenworth. Obviously that didn’t happen.
Another article from 12/2023 had this:
“Cronenworth, …would be…difficult to deal…. The 29-year-old is coming off the worst season of his career in 2023 and is owed a whopping $80MM over the next seven seasons, making him a less-than-palatable trade target for the majority of clubs. While Cronenworth’s salary is just over $7MM for the 2024 campaign, his contract’s AAV of around $11.5MM counts as a more significant hit against the luxury tax.”
Another article from 12/2023 was titled “The Challenge Of Trading Jake Cronenworth”.
There were no more Cronenworth trade rumors going back to 4/2023 when SD signed him to that 8 year extension.
Jean, You are right about that. It was on The Athletic. Two articles during the winter meetings and one two weeks ago.
Tigers would definitely be selling low to move Tork at this point. Not that it couldn’t happen given the right trade but don’t hold your breath. Tork has options left so the Tigers certainly could send him there if needed. Plus, Torres is a one year signing. Tork does well he is right back in the 1B picture with Keith sliding back to 2B.
Surely Milwaukee didn’t expect Hoskins to be at full power after missing a full season. Seems ridiculous to be down on him when he’s in a position to rebound.
You didn’t even mention the Diamondbacks, who need another RH bat and perhaps a long-term 1B replacement. If the Dbacks offer Jordan Montgomery as a bounce-back candidate, several million dollars to offset his final contract year, and a reliever or decent prospect, wouldn’t that fit both teams’ needs?
The Toldeo Mud Hens would be a great fit.
How about if the Bucs offer their failed #1 pick Henry Davis?
Maybe they both could benefit from a change of scenery.
That would be my thought. Change of scenery worked for Bart, why not Tork?
Bart was already developed just needed playing time. Tork not developed and pirates can’t develop. Davis more valuable as well. Pirates probably would trade Davis just not for Tork. Who knows though.
I’ll get torched here……Abreu for Tork + prospect.. RS looking for monster RHH.
Wouldn’t take Abreu to get him. I like the idea tho.
jays should trade for Tork – Vlad won’t be resigning and he would fit the rebuild timeline. Jays have a ton of AAAA players but what would the Tigers need in return?
Straight up for Manoah.
Dbacks get: Work
Tigers get: Montgomery + cash
Stupid auto correct. That should be Tork not Work
1500 pa’s and he’s a below replacement level hitter with little defensive value. DET has nothing to lose by giving him ST and AAA to start the year to show he’s not what he was last year. If he didn’t have an option left he would be a non-tender candidate.
That’s what I’m thinking.
Rockies and Mariners make the most sense. But how about the Phillies? RH bench bat with pop that can spell Harper at 1B & Schwarber (DH) on occasion. If he’s really on the market, I’d at least offer them something and hope he hit can lefties in a part time role. Or they could say, hey we have no spot for Taijuan Walker – you guys take his 2/$37mil and we’ll take your worst contract – Javier Baez. The Phillies would add $7mil in payroll the next two years, but I bet they’d find AB’s for him. Tigers need a 5th starter, they’re just as anxious to trade Baez as the Phillies are Walker most likely.
Tigers need a #2 starter. They have lots of 5th starters.
Anyone with a decent, breathing third baseman……DONE !!
No idea why the Mets aren’t listed. They could probably get him for a minor leaguer.
He’s a former 1/1 who hit 30 HRs just a year ago, with 4 years of control. That better be some minor leaguer.
Being a former 1/1 is irrelevant. Tork, Henry Davis, and Mickey Moniak were all a 1/1 over the last 10 years. The previous 10 had the same rate of failure with Brady Aiken, Mark Appel, and Tim Beckham at 1/1.
The 30 HRs is a better argument, except that was 2023. His value has dropped considerably based on his failed 2024 season.
I don’t see it as being irrelevant. The 4 years of control certainly aren’t. The 1/1 isn’t a guarantee, but its still a pedigree. 24 was bad, but 23 showed glimpses of what he could be. I’d be in no rush to trade him.
Being 1/1 is no guarantee of anything. It’s irrelevant to Tork’s value.
Team control has value, but it has nothing to do with being 1/1. Every guy debuting the same time as Tork has the same amount of team control. A guy taken in the last round who debuted at the same time as Tork, has the same amount of team control. Being 1/1 is irrelevant to the value of team control.
And as far as pedigree goes, in retrospect, clearly that pedigree, or more accurately, potential, was erroneously conferred on guys like Aiken, Appel, Moniak, and Beckham. That could be the case with Tork, we don’t know right now. The only thing about being 1/1, in some cases, is how it’s indicative of how that perceived potential can be so very wrong. But certainly not as a yardstick to value.
rangers theoretically still need a RH platoon for Joc at DH. or could play first and move Burger to DH those days. and just plain sit burger for torkelson some days. and the rangers have no money….
some of these other teams may be willing to give him more of a shot…..he’d probably not be happy if traded here, and the tigers might prefer to accommodate him by trading him somewhere he’ll have a good opportunity, I don’t know their relationship at this point
Yes, Harris will really want Torkelson to thrive once he gives up on him, and gets back pennies on the dollar.
Pirates and Mets? Pirates got Horowitz but he can play other infield spots as well.
Cook can play 1st for the pirates Davis might play 1st
Not sure the Giants would need/want Tork. In that ballpark, I think OBP is worth more than what Tork provides. Comerica has a PF for HRs for RHHs that’s 9 points higher than Oracle. The Giants need guys that get on base and get XBHs, not one-dimensional sluggers.
the Mariners and Pads make the most sense. Both appear to have salary crunches so a cheaper young player would be beneficial and at least in the Mariners case, a clear opening at his position.
like
If he fails to launch this season he’ll probably be released if he goes down the farm again this season. As a fan I root for him but it seems like he doesn’t have the level of confidence he needs to succeed. It feels like hes stuck at .200 with little power or driving in runs skill. .
His at bats ate very tough to watch. Trading before spring training may help everyone involved with the Tigers. Gives Tork the fire to succeed with his new team to show everyone Detroit made a mistake in letting him go. Malloy, Perez, and Carpenter all vying for D.H and outfield leaves little room on the team. Tork looks way too tight compared to those three, so its going to be interesting this spring if he stays.
The Detroit FO are bumblers. Or someone is….. not only have they failed to hire the Superfife they have done…well…not much else.
Arenado won’t come to Detroit? Pay him to permanently waive the NT clause.
Bergman = one year, $30M + what ever option he wants = let him prove it, let him play 3rd base and 2nd base.
Sell some seats, shirts and hotdogs.
Trade them both for kicks if we want to..just to mess.with Hinch…
So you see, Tiger fans =
Get the pizza heads out of the box!
Hire the Superfife!
Tork, Montero and Manning for Suarez and Cease. SD would have their cheap, controllable replacements for those two and Arraez. Or maybe they could even keep them two if they made this deal. You think this is bad?
That is a terrible one sided deal for Detroit and against San Diego.
:Padres would never make that deal.
No. I think Torkelson will be back to 30+ hrs asap….
Why sell low?
Maybe to the Dodgers, just to.do Torkelson a favor!
Horowitz can play a good 1B, and below average elsewhere. I don’t see Pitts changing direction.
Tork is a native Californian who needs a change of scenery.
The Padres would be his best bet to rotate @ 1B/DH and get back on track.
Golden opportunity for Tork to get a lot of ABs and try to rebuild his career.
Padres have some interesting pieces, young pitching that may be of interest to the Tigers on their major league and minor league teams
that could be of interest to the Tigers.
I just typed Torkelson, Manning and Montero for Suarez and Cease. SD would have their cheap, controllable replacements for Arraez, Cease and King. If they even still needed to trade Arraez and King.
No matter how many times you type that ridiculous deal
it won’t fly for the Padres.
Why would San Diego give up an NL All Star Closer( Suarez) with 3 total years of possible control
and a #1 Starter who pitched a no hitter last year and has been in the type 5 for Cy Young voting a few times in the last 4-5 years
for a package of question marks?!:
Manning is another bust #1 draft pick who is always hurt and cannot stay in a major league rotation based on performance,
,
Torkelson is another bust of a #1 draft pick
who is performing like a AAAA player
Montero is a lottery ticket who is not an established major league starter, but could be in the future.
Not seeing that the Padres would bite on such a one sided deal.
Just because someone is young and cheap doesn’t make them good. Torkelson has low value right now, I like him but a buy low. Manning sucks, can’t make starts or pitch well in the majors. No idea who Montero is because it wasn’t explained and I don’t follow their farm, but I’d assume he’s not the headliner. If Preller wanted to get fired, he’d take this deal.
Montero is a promising young pitcher for the back of the rotation. The Padres already have 4-5 young pitchers competing for the same #5 rotation spot.
Neither Tork nor Manning have proven themselves to be major league starters, yet.
The Tigers have cheap young pitching. They need a #2 starter, 3B and power bullpen arm. Dsett is on the right track with his framework for a deal but I think they would have to give up more to get Cease and Suarez.
The Padres already have a bunch of young pitchers vying for #4 and #5 starter positions in their MLB rotation.
I am not seeing the Padres would bite on the Tigers #6 or #7 starter (Manning)
(busted top draft pick)
+ Tork a busted #1 Draft pick
+ Montero a young back of the rotation starter who is not yet established himself as a reliable innings eater.
Montero is the best Tigers offering in this proposed deal
ans he is just duplication of the Padres Waldron or any number of back of the rotation young starters the Padres will run out there.
Torkelson and Manning are reclamation projects who may never reach their potential as Tigers 1st round draft picks.
full season
I think I just said they would have to give up more. Those players wouldn’t be enough for Cease alone. Having said that it could be the framework of a deal.
The Tigers would have to give up a helluva lot more to get those 2 premium pitchers even for 1 or 2 years.
Agree.
Do you have a third baseman ?
Tork, Montero and Manning for Suarez and Cease. SD would have their cheap, controllable replacements for Arraez, Cease and King, if or when they deal him. Or maybe they wouldn’t have to.
A Tiger fan would do that then throw a party, Bad trade for the Pads.
Chris I. (nor his mama) would not do it. So, no party.
Tork is going to be a Mud Hen.
Padres trade Cease & Arraez to either Tigers or Mets.
Sure. What’s the return? Tork and ???
I have studied the Mets 40 Man Roster and their top major league prospects.
Mets have a very good major league team, but they do not have the depth in the areas and positions of need that the Padres
It is very unlikely that either the Mets or the Tigers would give up the young, cost controlled talent to get both Cease and Arraez.
It probably takes 4-6 high quality players to get both players with a good portion of it ready to play in the majors right now.
I think Pete Alonso is closer even much closer to Torkelson than a mvp level 1b. And he thought he was going to get more much more than Goldschmidt Freeman contracts.
DBacks make some sense and I’m surprised he wasn’t mentioned. They’re still looking for a right handed DH bat and their current 1B (Naylor) is only under contract for one season. Torkelson also has connections to Arizona given that he went to ASU (not that it matters that much when it comes to a potential trade)
What’s been reported about Tork is that he totally refuses to change his swing. Coaches have tried to fix the 8 ft hole in his swing since he was drafted and he will not do it. Don’t think he’s a headcase, just think he is a stubborn kid to the point of fault. And if he still refuses to do so it’s gonna end up costing him his career. That 1/1 money was great, but he’s not going to earn much beyond minimum MLB salary if he doesn’t “figure it out” soon, so we’ll see this year if there’s been any change in this department. I don’t feel bad for him at all, b/c if you don’t take to coaching and choose to be a Mendoza-Line hitter then that’s on you! Time will tell…..
The Tigers are trying to turn every batter into one who controls the strike zone, takes walks, and puts the ball in play. Power hitters seldom meet that criteria. They swing for the fences, and tend to strike out some. However, a RH power hitter is what they need. Teaching Alonso to become a contact hitter makes as much sense as what they are trying to do with Torkelson. Just let him hit like a power hitter, and quit messing with his swing.
He’s got a hole big enough to drive a truck through, in his swing……
This is on the coaches also.
One size does not fit all.
It would not surprise me if Tork lands somewhere else, tries a modified approach that fits the way he hits
and has as “breakout season” in another uniform.
Analytics is a “one size fits all” approach.
Some “old school type hitters” do not fit the analytics hitting approach but they can still be successful major league players.
Would be selling extremely low. Should keep him.
I can’t believe how much people are hating on Tork! He might just come out hitting this year and make Detroit re- construct their infield to include him at first base. Too early write off anyone yet, Tork could just as easily hit 40 dingers this season and carry the club. That’s why they play the games, can’t be positive about the season until you play it
Here’s the deal. At this point he isn’t worth much, he is a flyer.
No, he isn’t worth a SP.
He’s a good player in the minors and young. Giant hole in his bat and plenty of strikeouts. No one is gonna give io MLB proven talent for him. Prospects sure, but dude has a negative career war and in his one good season still K’d 171times.
Unproven talent gets unproven talent.
This feels like a Mariners move. “Well we traded for a former 1st overall pick what more do you want us to do?” as they miss the playoffs again.
Tork isn’t going anywhere. He’s been working hard this offseason and Harris knows it. No say a trade happens before he sees the changes Tork is implementing. The most likely scenario is that he wins a role on the team in Spring Training. Bet.
Why do the Padres need to make a “payroll-clearing trade from their IF” Anthony? What an off the wall comment. But to follow up, cheese doesn’t generate an electrical current through scuba gear, either.
Spencer Torkelson will have a great year and have a great career.
Angels not on that list at all? Interesting. Earlier in the offseason all we heard was that Schanuel needed to be moved to the OF to make room for a 1B. Is Tork just not a good enough 1B?
Tork to mariners for SP prospect jeter Martinez and Dollard. There. Make it happen jerry. Detroit can’t be expecting a kings ransom after the fall off a cliff production from tork last year
I’m surprised they didn’t list the NYM as a likely landing spot?
Thinking AAA is the best place for him. He needs to regain his mojo.
No way anyone trades for him. He is a DFA waiting to happen.
Which of the candidates is best suited fir a tightly wound anger management candidate I wonder? All the teams listed are pretty chill it would seem. Hilarious if he went to a pressure cooker city like Philly, New York or Boston, heh
He crumbles and throws out F bombs on live TV when things don’t go his away. And the list includes a lot of quaint polite smaller Midwestern towns like Minnehaha and Milawahkay, and chill environments like SeaTac, Colorado, Cincy and SF? Heh heh
Any kind of relatively quick resolution of a lawsuit seems like a miracle these days.
Didn’t think previous LAD owner drag on for years
That would be great for MLB as a whole and especially for SDP so I hope it happens
NYM fan but hoping DET can make a few more moves and be a real force in the league. We could use some new blood.
Same for PIT, SEA,OAK/Sac even COL have a surprise year. WASH I think is going to surprise
Anyone except LAD Please.
I might even have to root for NYY against LAD it would be difficult but
I think MLB needs a NEW commissioner
I nominate myself
I am begining to agree with the Harris detractors. Not only has he failed to hire the Superfife or even take advantage of all the free advice the Superfife has provided these past few years, this Christmas the guy didn’t even have the BRAINS ENOUGH to spike Marion’s eggnog with a good amount of rum to loosen her up a bit! It is the POBs’ job to tell the owners what’s what. At this, he is a MISERABLR FAILURE. No Holiday Spirit what so ever!
Smartest man in the room?
KMA!
AL Cy Young Winner Tarik Skubal had 2 different surgeries including Tommy John.
So, what is your point?!