Insider seems certain of Spencer Torkelson's future, but Tigers should keep open mind

The Tigers wouldn't have made it as far as they did in 2025 if it weren't for four key surprises: Casey Mize, Zach McKinstry, Javy Báez, and Spencer Torkelson. Fans called for all of their demotions or releases constantly in 2024 — Torkelson did get demoted — but there was none of that this year.

They all still struggled, mostly in the second half, but it was more a matter of coming down from hot streaks than being as irredeemably terrible as fans had previously thought.

Mize and Torkelson's comebacks were arguably the biggest wins for the Tigers as former first overall picks. It helped Mize drive his value up as a impending free agent after the 2026 season, and it helped Torkelson keep himself from being traded. ... Or did it?

Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press seems confident that Torkelson has solidified his place in the lineup and at first base, writing that he's "here to stay" after a career-best year in most offensive categories.

But with the Tigers entering a pivotal offseason, maybe they should keep their options open.

Spencer Torkelson probably isn't going anywhere, but Tigers should use him if the right trade opportunity arises

Of the Tigers' top three sluggers — Riley Greene, Torkelson, and Kerry Carpenter — there's no doubt that Greene has the most trade value and Carpenter has the least. Greene is the purest power hitter, but Torkelson is the clutchest. Carpenter, while beloved by Tigers fans for some huge moments, still hasn't completely broken away from his platoon role, and his defense in the outfield is less than ideal.

Torkelson's 31 homers, 78 RBI, and first overall pick glamour could make him a potent trade piece if the Tigers are looking for a trade they really want to get across the finish line. And the Tigers have a pretty crowded infield (at least from first base to shortstop).

The difference between any trade rumors last year and the idea of trading Torkelson this year is that fans wouldn't actually relish is departure. He may never live up to the first overall pick hype, but if he can continue to produce 30+ homer seasons (and as one of few righty bats in the Tigers' lineup), it could be worth keeping him through all of his years of team control.

But still, Torkelson's trade value has never been higher, the Tigers have guys they can move over to first base, and they need to do something big this offseason. They don't have to shop him, but maybe they shouldn't totally rule him out as a trade asset.