The Tigers’ Gleyber Torres Problem No One Saw Coming

When Gleyber Torres signed a one-year, $15 million deal with the Tigers last winter, it was a fresh start after his Yankees tenure ended with more questions than answers. Nine months later, it looks like a bargain, and a problem.

The 28-year-old second baseman has been one of Detroit’s most consistent bats in 2025, batting .271 with a career-high .368 on-base percentage, 13 homers, and a 120 OPS+. He’s cut down on strikeouts, shown improved patience at the plate, and reminded everyone why he was once considered one of the game’s better young infielders. His bounce-back has been a key piece of the Tigers’ first-place run in the AL Central and a boost to a lineup that has needed his steady production.

But it’s also setting up a big payday, one that might push him out of Detroit. 

MLB.com notes that Torres “appears to be a good long-term fit” but will “likely seek a multiyear contract that probably won’t be cheap.” Given the scarcity of quality second basemen available this winter, he’ll have no shortage of suitors, especially among contenders looking for proven postseason experience. His defensive reliability at second, paired with the ability to slide over to shortstop in a pinch, only adds to his appeal.

That puts Tigers president of baseball operations Scott Harris in a tricky spot. The club has internal options coming — including prospects who could slot into the middle infield — but Torres’ right-handed power is hard to replace. Detroit has struggled to find consistent production from the right side, and losing a bat with his blend of pop and on-base skills would leave a hole that could ripple through the lineup.

For now, the Tigers can focus on the stretch run, where Torres’ bat, versatility, and experience will be crucial. This winter, though, the decision will be unavoidable — pay up or move on.