Five Teams Who Could Trade for Spencer Torkelson
p/c: Junfu Han - Detroit Free Press
In the 2020 MLB Draft, the Detroit Tigers chose Arizona State phenom, Spencer Torkelson, with the #1 overall selection.
Aside from a 31 home run campaign, in 2023, Torkelson has struggled to sustain consistency at the Major League level, which has involved demotions to AAA.
It was reported recently that the Tigers had agreed to sign Gleyber Torres as their new second baseman. Tigers GM Jeff Greenberg said that Colt Keith will be moving off second to play first base. Perhaps DH could be an option for Torkelson, but it’s also likely Detroit puts him on the trade block.
Whoever were to acquire Torkelson would be getting him with four years of club control. There are five teams, who I feel could be potential fits.
Chicago White Sox: For a White Sox team that finished with the worst record in MLB history, this destination feels self-explanatory.
The White Sox need as much hitting depth as physically possible, especially in the power department, and it seems like the Tigers would accommodate Torkelson, even if it means dealing him to a division rival.
Los Angeles Angels: Perhaps to a lesser extent than the White Sox, the Los Angeles Angels also need lineup reinforcements, more particularly, first base. Torkelson would definitely be given every chance to be the regular first baseman in Anaheim.
Angels’ management hasn’t been shy, when it comes to taking flyers, on former top prospects, with Mickey Moniak being the most recent example, so Torkelson is an ideal candidate.
Miami Marlins: Following the trades of Jake Burger and Jesus Luzardo this offseason, the Miami Marlins appear to be headed into a rebuild.
In regards to the Burger departure, first base is now a position of need, for the Fish. Torkelson having years of control would give him plenty of opportunity to be a starter in Miami.
Pittsburgh Pirates: Pittsburgh may seem like a curious landing spot, for Torkelson, given that the Pirates acquired Spencer Horwitz from the Cleveland Guardians at the Winter Meetings.
As solid as the numbers are for Horwitz, when facing right-handed pitching, he’s been subpar against lefties. Adding Torkelson to the mix would allow the Bucs to pair up a Spencer duo at first base.
Seattle Mariners: When it comes to the Seattle Mariners’ offseason needs, first base is a main priority.
Seattle was reportedly interested in Carlos Santana, before he signed with the Guardians. Their ability to spend would still make them suitors, in the Pete Alonso sweepstakes.
Recent speculation around the Mariners is Torkelson as a possible trade target. Because Seattle are legit contenders, within the AL West, it’s unclear whether they would feel comfortable about having Torkelson in an every day first base role - unless some sort of platoon is in the works.