The New York Yankees have formally parted ways with second baseman Gleyber Torres, according to MLB Network source Jon Heyman, who reported Friday morning that Torres will sign with the Detroit Tigers. ESPN’s Jesse Rogers stated that it is a one-year, $15 million contract.
Gleyber Torres is signing with the Tigers
Torres, 28, had spent the first seven seasons of his career with the Yankees. He was a two-time All-Star and hit 138 home runs with a.774 OPS while wearing the Yankees uniform.
Following the 2019 season, Torres’ inconsistency at the plate and on the field became a major issue. He has led the league in errors for the past two seasons, including a career-high 18 errors last season.
However, he has shown to be a valuable bat that can help bolster a lineup. Torres also proved to be a solid leadoff hitter, hitting.283 with a.755 OPS and six home runs in 237 plate appearances last season.
The Tigers sign a much-needed infield bat in free agency, as they seek to be aggressive in the market following a stunning playoff run last season. Detroit may not be done, as they have expressed strong interest in free-agent slugger and third baseman Alex Bregman, who would be reunited with manager A.J. Hinch.
The Yankees will have a different look in the infield next season
For the Yankees, this officially ends any hope of keeping Torres in the Bronx, as was predicted. The Yankees decided not issue a qualifying offer to the second baseman at the outset of the offseason, giving him the opportunity to test the open market for the first time in his career.
The Yankees will now look elsewhere to fill a hole on the infield. They have a few internal options, such as Oswaldo Cabrera and Oswald Peraza, who can fill an infield place and shift Jazz Chisholm back to second base, or they can sign or trade for an infielder.
Regardless, the Yankees’ infield will look very different on Opening Day 2025, as Torres, a fan favourite, has left New York for a fresh start in Detroit.