What Spencer Torkelson needs to do in minor leagues to get back to the Tigers

The Detroit Tigers are sending down first baseman Spencer Torkelson in a move that has a clear message across it. “Improve or stay down in the minors."

Yes, that line sounds painfully obvious, but there is a lot to unpack with this roster decision. For one, there's blame going around about whether the hitting coaches did their job in improving Spencer Torkelson. That narrative points back to what Detroit was working on with former infielder Isaac Paredes prior to his trade to Tampa Bay, where the Rays were able to maximize Paredes' ability more effectively, leading to a breakout season in 2023.

His swing has been the focus since he was drafted, drawing early comps to former first baseman Paul Konerko ($). Torkelson broke out last season, hitting 31 home runs and driving in 94, but there were still questions about his batting average. Even last season, the power was inconsistent, hitting just two home runs and got off to a slow start in April, hitting just .206/.266/.309.

Torkelson's swing has not changed much, and it's a topic that has been off-limits to a degree down in the locker room. But the numbers in 2024 show a dip in hitting fastballs.

Spencer Torkelson is struggilng with hitting fastballs

The slash line of .179/.199/.292 with a run value of -4 against four-seam fastballs compared to 5 in 2023 after a minus 8 in 2022, shows the inconsistency not only Tigers fans are seeing but the coaching staff. He is only pulling the ball just 3.9% more than in 2023. With over 200 plate appearances to work with, how much can the coaches do?

Spencer Torkelson was rushed to the majors

When it comes to developing first baseman, it happens as a positional player makes the transition to the position on the diamond, or they are drafted as one. At the time, the Tigers had a greater need for a long-term solution at third base. General Manager Al Avila and the scouting team believed Torkelson had the athleticism and skills to potentially handle third base, which would address a critical area for the team while keeping options open for the future.

Even in the minor leagues, there was an adjustment period before Torkelson would start hitting at each level. In 2021 in Triple-A, and even the time he was sent down, he never hit over .240. Detroit hasn't really had a backup plan in place in case Torkelson struggled. Should they be blamed for that? Perhaps, but that was a different front office then.

Torkelson turns 25 in August and this time in Toledo could benefit him in figuring things out. The label "bust" is premature but for those who want to argue with stats. That's fine and I agree, it is too early to write off Spencer Torkelson but one thing is clear as Scott Harris continues to evaluate what he has. The leash may be getting shorter based on the data presented to him and his staff.