The Detroit Tigers are carefully evaluating their first base options as they consider the potential of former prospect Spencer Torkelson, whose performance, despite a promising 31-homer season in 2023, still requires improvement.
The Tigers’ management remains committed to providing Spencer Torkelson with opportunities to demonstrate his capabilities. However, they are also exploring interest in veteran first basemen during the Winter Meetings. This includes considering players like Christian Walker and Paul Goldschmidt, reflecting the team’s goal of maintaining a versatile roster. The team has even asked younger players, such as Colt Keith and Justyn-Henry Malloy, to practice at first base this offseason.
Scott Harris, the president of baseball operations, emphasized the need for improved performance across the board. In his address at the Hilton Anatole, he highlighted the importance of both offensive and defensive enhancements. Harris stated, “The point still stands that the performance has to get better,” underlining that the organization is exploring various ways to strengthen the team.
While the Tigers remain hopeful that Torkelson can fulfill his potential, they are open to external additions that could enhance the team’s talent base. Harris explained that the team’s strategy involves maximizing the current roster while seeking new players to reinforce the organization’s strengths. This dual approach aims to ensure that players return in better form than when they left.
The designated hitter (DH) role presents another challenge for the Tigers. Last season, the team used the DH position flexibly to manage workloads and optimize player contributions, such as Kerry Carpenter’s batting opportunities and Riley Greene’s recovery from a hamstring injury. This strategy limits the possibility of assigning the DH spot to one or two specific players, necessitating a more adaptable approach.
Torkelson’s performance last season saw a period of reassessment, as he spent time with Triple-A Toledo after struggling with his batting average. The team’s first base was covered by players like Mark Canha, Bligh Madris, and Gio Urshela during Torkelson’s absence. However, he returned in mid-August, taking up the first base role consistently for the remainder of the regular season and throughout the postseason.
Harris noted that the lack of versatility at first base during the previous season’s second half restricted manager A.J. Hinch’s ability to exploit in-game matchups effectively. By expanding the skill sets of players like Malloy and Keith, the Tigers aim to provide more strategic options that could lead to better game outcomes.
The Detroit Tigers are at a crossroads as they evaluate their first base options and consider the future role of Spencer Torkelson. Maintaining faith in Torkelson’s abilities while actively seeking veteran players reflects the organization’s strategy to balance internal development with external enhancement to optimize team performance.
Source: Mlb
