The Detroit Tigers are making headlines this offseason after a surprising 30-11 finish in the 2024 season, which secured them a postseason berth and a victory over the Houston Astros in the Wild Card Series. Despite this success, their activity in the free agent market has been limited, with only a one-year, $15 million deal signed with veteran pitcher Alex Cobb. Speculation surrounded the Tigers as potential finalists for star infielder Alex Bregman, but the hefty price tag of around $200 million seems to have deterred them from pursuing a long-term commitment.
Instead, the Tigers have opted for a more economical approach, signing Gleyber Torres to a similar one-year deal worth $15 million. Torres, a two-time All-Star, has had a tumultuous career since his breakout season in 2019 with the New York Yankees, where he posted impressive stats. Last season, however, he struggled with a modest .257 batting average and a significant drop in power. As the Tigers prepare for the 2025 season, Torres is expected to take on the role of regular second baseman, despite the presence of Colt Keith, who was previously signed to a long-term deal and had a promising rookie season.
With Keith potentially shifting to first base, the future of Spencer Torkelson, the former first overall pick, is uncertain after a disappointing 2024 season. The team may also need to find room for Jace Jung, who has shown promise but could be affected by the addition of Torres. The situation remains fluid, as the Tigers could still pursue Bregman, which would further complicate the infield dynamics. The Tigers are at a crossroads, needing to make strategic moves to bolster their offense while navigating a crowded infield.
As for Torres' fantasy value, it remains to be seen how he will perform in a new environment, especially given the potential downgrade in supporting talent and park factors. However, his late-season resurgence in 2024 offers some hope for a productive 2025. With manager A.J. Hinch's aggressive approach to base running, there is potential for Torres to increase his stolen bases, adding to his overall fantasy appeal. The Tigers' offseason strategy will be crucial in determining their success in the upcoming season, and fans are eager to see how the roster will take shape, especially if further moves are made to enhance their competitiveness.
