Gleyber Torres joins the Detroit Tigers: contract details and fee

In a move that marks the end of an era for the New York Yankees, Gleyber Torres has agreed to a one-year, $15 million contract with the Detroit Tigers.

The signing was expected, as the relationship between Torres and the Yankees had reached a point of no return. The 2024 season saw the final days of Torres in New York, a player who never quite emerged as a star and who will be remembered more for his inconsistency.

Torres joined the Yankees in 2016 as part of a trade with the Chicago Cubs for closer Aroldis Chapman. Since his arrival, he was considered a future star, and his first seasons only confirmed those expectations. In 2018 and 2019, Torres was selected for the All-Star Game, consolidating himself as one of the brightest promises in the industry.

A season of contrasts for Gleyber Torres

Torres' 2024 season with the Yankees was a rollercoaster ride. In his first 86 games, his offensive performance was disappointing: a .221 batting average, eight home runs and a .638 OPS. These numbers, along with a few incidents such as being removed from a game for not running hard after a ball on the ground, put his future with the team in doubt.

However, the second half of the season saw a resurgence from Torres.Over the last 68 games, he posted a .298 batting average with seven home runs and a .788 OPS. This resurgence allowed him to be a key piece in the Yankees' run to the postseason, although his performance declined again in the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Despite his offensive improvement in the second half of the season, Torres' defensive struggles continued to be a liability. He led all MLB second basemen in errors with 18 and posted a minus-7 Outs Above Average, second-to-last among qualified second basemen, according to Fangraphs. Those defensive deficiencies were a constant concern for the Yankees and a major reason the organization decided not to renew his contract.

The end of an era in New York

Torres' departure marks the close of a significant chapter for the Yankees. During his time in New York, Torres showed flashes of brilliance and was a central figure in several exciting seasons. However, his inconsistency and defensive issues undermined his relationship with the team and fans, leading to a split.

For the Yankees, Torres' departure represents an opportunity to redirect their efforts and build a stronger, more balanced team. The organization will continue to seek out new talent and strategies to remain a contender in the MLB, adapting to the challenges that each season brings.

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A new beginning in Detroit

The Detroit Tigers, by contrast, see Torres as an opportunity to add talent and experience to their roster. With current second baseman Colt Keith also struggling defensively with 12 errors in 2024, the addition of Torres could provide a significant offensive upgrade and a chance to fix their defensive game under new management.

In Detroit, Torres will have the chance to leave the expectations and criticism of New York behind and start over in a less demanding environment. The Tigers hope Torres can be a spark in their lineup and help guide a young team toward a more competitive future.

The 2025 MLB season gets underway in March with the Tokyo Series. The Tigers are in action on the Opening Day, facing the Dodgers on 27 March.