Tigers Rumors: Unexpected trade destination emerges for Spencer Torkelson

It's been nearly a month since the Detroit Tigers signed second baseman Gleyber Torres to a one-year, $15 million contract in free agency, but the dominoes are still continuing to fall.

The Tigers signed Torres to be their starting second baseman, moving Colt Keith over to first. This left former No. 1 overall pick Spencer Torkelson – whose future with Detroit was already precarious at best – without a clear role heading into 2025, and other teams are beginning to take notice.

One of those teams is the New York Mets, who are preparing for the possibility of a future without Pete Alonso, their longtime first baseman who remains unsigned in free agency. According to Sports Illustrated's Pat Ragazzo, the Mets are reportedly considering a trade for Torkelson as one of several potential options to replace Alonso in the middle of their lineup.

Tigers Rumors: Mets emerge as unexpected trade candidate for Spencer Torkelson

Torkelson mashed 31 homers and drove in 94 RBI with the Tigers in 2023, but he hasn't come close to duplicating that level of production in either of his other two Major League seasons. His wildly inconsistent numbers at the plate have led to numerous demotions to Triple-A Toledo over the past three seasons, where his numbers haven't been much better.

However, Torkelson's upside as a power hitter, his solid defense at first base and the fact that he has four more years of team control could make him an attractive option for a team like the Mets looking to acquire players with term. While Torkelson has had an underwhelming start to his Major League career, especially relative to the expectations that come with being the No. 1 overall pick, perhaps a change of scenery could be just what he needs.

The Tigers likely won't be looking to just give Torkelson away, especially with his four remaining years of team control, but they should definitely be listening to any and all trade inquiries if they involve Detroit landing considerable value in return.

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