In a surprising offseason move, Gleyber Torres has signed a $15 million, two-year contract with the Detroit Tigers, officially ending his tenure with the New York Yankees. The deal, announced on Friday, marks a new chapter for the 27-year-old infielder, who has been a cornerstone of the Yankeesâ roster since his debut in 2018.
Torres leaves New York after a season in which he posted a .273 batting average, hit 25 home runs, and drove in 68 runs. While his offensive production remained steady, the Yankeesâ front office appeared to be moving in a different direction, opting for more flexibility in their infield and prioritizing younger talent. The decision to let Torres walk signals a shift in the Yankeesâ strategy as they aim to revamp their roster following a disappointing 2024 campaign.
The Tigers, on the other hand, view Torres as a critical piece to their rebuilding efforts. His ability to hit for power and average, combined with his experience in high-pressure situations, makes him a valuable addition to Detroitâs lineup. Torres is expected to play a leadership role for a Tigers team eager to compete in the AL Central.
In a statement, Torres expressed gratitude for his time in New York. âThe Yankees gave me an incredible opportunity, and Iâll always cherish the memories and fans,â he said. âIâm excited to start this new chapter with the Tigers and help this team reach its goals.â
The move has sparked mixed reactions among Yankees fans, with many lamenting the loss of a consistent contributor while others see it as an opportunity to rejuvenate the team. For Torres, the transition to Detroit represents a chance to cement his legacy as one of baseballâs top infielders while helping a young Tigers squad climb the standings.
