MLB Trade Rumors: Tigers Could Make Surprising Move With Spencer Torkelson

Once seen as a cornerstone of the Detroit Tigers’ rebuild, Spencer Torkelson is now emerging as a potential trade candidate this offseason. 

Drafted first overall in 2020 and considered a top-five prospect at the time, Torkelson has struggled to meet expectations over his first three MLB seasons. 

His offensive production—a .221/.300/.392 slash line with a 95 wRC+—has been below average for a first baseman, and his defense has been a liability. 

As Nick Deeds of MLB Trade Rumors put it, “the club could clearly upgrade in free agency,” indicating Detroit’s willingness to explore other options.

Spencer Torkelson has a better playoff OPS than Aaron Judge pass it on

— Listen Here Baseball Commissioner (@spacemnkymafia) October 29, 2024

The Tigers’ unexpected 2024 playoff run has shifted the front office’s focus to building a more competitive roster, with president of baseball operations Scott Harris prioritizing a quality right-handed bat and pitching upgrades this winter. 

Moving Torkelson could facilitate these goals, freeing up first base for potential free agents like Pete Alonso or Christian Walker. 

As Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press noted, "all signs point" to Torkelson no longer being viewed as the long-term answer at the position, making him a candidate for a change of scenery.

"I'll never give up. I'll always believe in myself. I promised myself that a long time ago and I'm gonna stick with it."

Spencer Torkelson ran through all sorts of emotions in the Tigers celebration. He spent 58 games in Toledo before getting called back up. pic.twitter.com/BfIsugmF98

— Brad Galli (@BradGalli) September 28, 2024

Potential trade partners for Torkelson include the Pittsburgh Pirates, Boston Red Sox, and Arizona Diamondbacks, all of whom need young offensive talent and have the pitching depth Detroit covets. 

Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer described Torkelson as “a change-of-scenery candidate,” given his age, years of team control, and flashes of power potential. 

If the Tigers receive the right offer, Torkelson’s time in Detroit could be nearing its end.

Photo Credit: Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images