The Detroit Tigers have made a significant move by signing infielder Gleyber Torres to a one-year contract, which has led to a reshuffling of their infield positions. Torres will take over at second base, prompting Colt Keith, who played there last season, to transition to first base. This adjustment leaves Spencer Torkelson, the former No. 1 overall draft pick, in a precarious position as he now lacks a defined role within the team.

Torkelson, who was selected first overall in the 2020 draft after a successful college career at Auburn, has shown flashes of power with 31 home runs in 2023. However, his overall performance has been inconsistent, with a career batting average of just .221. Last season, he managed a disappointing .219 average over 92 major league games, including a stint in Triple-A, and recorded 10 home runs and 37 RBIs.

The Seattle Mariners, who are in search of a right-handed first baseman to complement their left-handed option, Luke Raley, might find Torkelson an appealing target. Despite his struggles, Torkelson demonstrated potential against left-handed pitching last season, boasting a .235 average and a solid .798 OPS in 89 at-bats. While the Mariners have also been linked to veteran Justin Turner for this role, Torkelson could be a more cost-effective option, especially since he is under team control through 2028.

However, acquiring Torkelson would mean the Mariners would miss out on the veteran leadership that Turner could bring to the clubhouse, an aspect they are reportedly seeking. As the offseason progresses, the implications of the Tigers' decision to sign Torres could resonate throughout the league, particularly impacting the Mariners' roster decisions.

The Seattle Mariners experienced a challenging season, yet there were notable highlights, particularly with the emergence of Cal Raleigh as a premier catcher and a solid starting pitching staff, arguably among the best in Major League Baseball. Victor Robles also made a significant comeback, securing a starting position for the 2025 season. However, the organization faced a major shift when Scott Servais was dismissed as manager on August 22, marking the end of a nine-year tenure that included a playoff appearance in 2022. On the same day, Hall of Famer Dan Wilson was appointed to lead the team, alongside hitting coach Edgar Martinez.

Wilson's debut came against the San Francisco Giants the following day, but it started poorly with the Mariners trailing 5-1. Despite missing key players like JP Crawford and Robles, the Mariners rallied in the eighth inning, showcasing a new offensive mindset. This pivotal moment not only tied the game but also set the tone for the remainder of the season. The Mariners demonstrated resilience, finishing the last 34 games with a 21-13 record, just missing the playoffs after relinquishing a significant lead in the American League West.

The improvements under Wilson and Martinez highlighted a transformation in the team's approach, with a newfound aggressiveness and ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. The successful late-season surge has left fans hopeful for the 2025 season, as Wilson continues in his role, and Martinez oversees hitting strategies. The August 23 game against the Giants will be remembered as a turning point for the franchise, signaling potential growth and success in the upcoming year.

The Seattle Mariners' offseason has been marked by disappointment and frustration for fans, who watched their team squander a 10-game lead in June and miss the playoffs for the fourth consecutive year.

Despite having a strong pitching rotation, the Mariners' offense struggled, leading the league in strikeouts. With a limited payroll of only $15-20 million, hopes for significant free agent acquisitions have dimmed.

ESPN's David Schoenfield highlighted the Mariners' fanbase as one of the most aggrieved in MLB, emphasizing the need for change as the team continues to miss postseason opportunities.

The Seattle Mariners are facing a challenging offseason as they have missed out on key free agents, including Paul Goldschmidt and Carlos Santana, leaving the team with pressing needs in the infield and bullpen.

Despite signing Mitch Garver to a significant contract last Christmas Eve, his performance in 2024 was disappointing, raising concerns among fans about the team's lack of activity in the current offseason.

With time still left in 2024, Mariners fans are hopeful for impactful acquisitions, but the options are dwindling.

The Seattle Mariners are struggling to address their offseason needs, particularly at second and third base, as well as first base. After watching key targets like Paul Goldschmidt and Carlos Santana sign elsewhere, the Mariners are left with limited options.

Despite initial interest in Justin Turner, the team shifted focus to Santana, who ultimately chose the Cleveland Guardians. With time running out, the Mariners may need to rekindle discussions with Turner, whose presence was valued in the clubhouse.