Even though pitchers and catchers have already reported for spring training and position players will arrive in about a week, trade possibilities remain open—especially for Jerry Dipoto. This offseason has been quieter than usual, but with clear gaps still in the roster, fans have been eager for the team to add another bat.
Spencer Torkelson has been Detroit’s everyday first baseman for the past three seasons, but his playing time diminished in 2024. The former No. 1 overall pick in 2020 boasts elite power and a solid bat, yet at 25 years old, he has yet to fully realize his potential. In 2023, he seemed poised to break out, slashing .233/.313/.446 with 31 home runs and 94 RBI. His 25% strikeout rate and nearly 10% walk rate appeared manageable for sustained success.
However, 2024 was a major setback. Torkelson struggled, hitting just .219/.295/.374 with 10 home runs in 92 games, leading to a demotion to Triple-A Toledo for 58 games. Now, he may find himself on the outside looking in with the Tigers.
With Detroit reportedly interested in Alex Bregman and recently acquiring Gleyber Torres, their infield is becoming crowded. The emergence of Matt Vierling and the move to shift Colt Keith to first base could make Torkelson expendable. If the Tigers are open to dealing the former No. 1 pick, Dipoto should be ready to make a move.
Mariners should consider this trade package for Tigers 1B Spencer Torkelson
Motor City Bengals recently published an article discussing the possibility of trading Spencer Torkelson and highlighted the reported asking price. The Tigers are reportedly seeking two top-15 prospects, though the article notes, “None of those teams are giving up two top-15 prospects for Tork. It’s just not happening.” Given Torkelson’s declining value, this seems accurate.
However, the article suggests that a trade for one top-15 prospect might be more realistic. With Detroit already stocked with offensive talent at both the major and minor league levels, their primary focus in a deal would likely be pitching.
Proposed Trade: Seattle Mariners & Detroit Tigers
Seattle Mariners Receive:
- 1B Spencer Torkelson
Detroit Tigers Receive:
- RHP Tyler Gough
- RHP Dylan Wilson
The Mariners have recently bolstered their pitching depth through the draft, selecting prospects like Jurrangelo Cijntje and Ryan Sloan—both considered untouchable in a potential trade. Other notable college arms, including Logan Evans, Brandyn Garcia, and Teddy McGraw, are also off-limits. That leaves Gough, a right-hander drafted in the ninth round of the 2022 MLB Draft, as a viable trade piece.
Ranked as the Mariners’ 17th-best prospect by MLB.com, Gough logged 95 2/3 innings at Single-A Modesto last season, posting a 4.33 ERA with 9.3 K/9 and 4.4 BB/9. While his walk rate is on the higher side, he is just 20 years old with time to refine his control. His fastball plays up due to strong spin and carry through the zone, complemented by a solid changeup and a mix of fringe secondary pitches—including a slider, curveball, and sweeper. His ceiling projects as either a back-end starter or a multi-inning reliever.
Wilson, the other piece in this proposed deal, is ranked 26th in the Mariners’ system. At just 19 years old, he represents a high-upside gamble for the Tigers. Though undersized at six feet tall, he features a mid-90s fastball and a sharp 12-to-6 curveball with intriguing potential.
While this offer isn’t one that will overwhelm Detroit, Torkelson’s struggles could see him spending a significant portion of the year in Triple-A, further diminishing his trade value. This might be the right time for the Tigers to move on and secure a pair of promising young arms for the future.
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