Gleyber Torres Thriving with Tigers

Gleyber Torres seems to be enjoying his time with the Tigers in Detroit. After a difficult exit from the Yankees—marked by struggles on the field and tension with the organization—he’s found a fresh start.

Now at 28, he’s the starting second baseman for the top team in the American League, and for the first time, he has received a nod as an All-Star starter.

In a heartfelt message to fans, Torres expressed appreciation for their support this season. “After being announced as the starting position player for the 2025 All-Star Game, I’ve never felt stronger support than I do now,” he shared. “I’m proud to represent the American League as your starting second baseman.”

Following his seven-year run with the Yankees, general manager Brian Cashman suggested that Jazz Chisholm Jr. might take over second base because Torres wanted to switch to third. However, that wasn’t a change Torres welcomed.

During spring training, he stated, “I feel I deserve to be with an organization that wants me. I’m here now. That’s why I’m here.” When asked whether he felt unwanted by the Yankees, he replied ambiguously, “I don’t know. I can probably ask him.”

It seems, perhaps, that shifting to the Tigers was a wise choice. He’s currently seen as an essential part of the team, with fan votes securing his All-Star position. His performance is noteworthy, contributing significantly to what many believe is the best team in MLB.

Despite losing favor with several Yankees figures and fans, the Tigers appear to embrace him wholeheartedly. Fans rallied around ballot measures, helping make Torres one of three starters for the upcoming All-Star Game, alongside rising star Riley Green and Javier Baez, who is enjoying a remarkable comeback season.

“This was a team effort,” Torres noted in a social media post, acknowledging not just the fans but also the support from his managers, coaches, and teammates. “When I join the field on July 15th, I’ll be with you guys.”

So far this season, Torres is having a standout year, boasting a career-high batting average of .279 with nine home runs and 43 RBIs. His OPS stands at .811, and he participated in the recent game against the Nationals. This marks his first All-Star starter appearance, although he was previously selected for the All-Star teams in 2018 and 2019.