Tigers’ Spencer Torkelson Faces Uncertain Future After Struggles

DETROIT, Mich. — Spencer Torkelson, the Detroit Tigers‘ first overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft, is at a crossroads in his career. Once hailed as a can’t-miss prospect with the potential to be a middle-of-the-order force, Torkelson has struggled to find his footing in the majors, leaving his future with the team in doubt.

Torkelson, 24, entered the league with sky-high expectations after a dominant college career at Arizona State and a meteoric rise through the minors. In 2021, he tore through High-A, Double-A, and Triple-A, earning a consensus top-10 prospect ranking ahead of his 2022 rookie season. However, his transition to the big leagues has been rocky. In his debut season, Torkelson hit just .200 with a .600 OPS and eight home runs in 110 games, leading to a midseason demotion to Triple-A.

While he showed flashes of potential in late 2023, posting an .855 OPS and 133 wRC+ over his final 55 games, Torkelson regressed again in 2024. Through the first two months, he slashed .201/.266/.330, resulting in another demotion. His struggles continued in Triple-A, where he posted a .799 OPS in 58 games—a far cry from his dominant 2021 minor league campaign.

“If you have a big offseason and a big spring training, there’s a role for you on this team,” Tigers president of baseball operations Scott Harris told Torkelson, according to team sources. However, the Tigers’ recent roster moves suggest Torkelson may no longer be a priority. The team signed Colt Keith to a long-term deal and plans to use him as the primary first baseman in 2025, with Kerry Carpenter likely handling DH duties.

Torkelson’s struggles have left the Tigers with limited options. While he could still earn a platoon role or serve as depth at first base, a trade to a team in need of a right-handed power bat may be the best outcome for both parties. Potential suitors include the Seattle Mariners, San Diego Padres, and Miami Marlins, all of whom could offer Torkelson consistent playing time to rediscover his form.

Despite his setbacks, Torkelson’s pedigree and raw power make him an intriguing reclamation project. Whether he remains in Detroit or finds a new home, the 2025 season will be pivotal in determining whether he can fulfill the promise that once made him the top pick in the draft.