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.
