Tigers' Torkelson Looks to Bounce Back in 2026 After Tough 2025 Season

The former top draft pick struggled in 2024 and was demoted, but the team sees his potential for a rebound.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Spencer Torkelson, the first overall pick in the 2020 MLB draft, had a breakout 2023 season for the Detroit Tigers, hitting 31 home runs. However, he struggled in 2024 and was demoted to Triple-A. Now, the Tigers are hoping Torkelson can use the disappointment of 2025 as motivation to bounce back and regain his form in the 2026 season.

Why it matters

Torkelson was viewed as a key part of the Tigers' future when they drafted him, so his development is crucial for the team's long-term success. If he can return to his 2023 level of production, it would provide a major boost to the Tigers' lineup and playoff hopes.

The details

After being the first overall pick in 2020, Torkelson hit 31 home runs in 2023, his breakout season. However, he struggled mightily in 2024, leading the Tigers to demote him to Triple-A. The team is hoping he can use the disappointment of 2025 as motivation to regain his form and become a core part of their lineup again.

  • Torkelson was the first overall pick in the 2020 MLB draft.
  • In 2023, Torkelson hit 31 home runs for the Tigers.
  • In 2024, Torkelson struggled and was demoted to Triple-A.

The players

Spencer Torkelson

The first overall pick in the 2020 MLB draft, Torkelson had a breakout 2023 season with 31 home runs before struggling in 2024 and being demoted to Triple-A.

Detroit Tigers

The MLB team that drafted Torkelson first overall in 2020 and is hoping he can regain his form and become a core part of their lineup.

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What they’re saying

“I really enjoyed last year's camp”

— Spencer Torkelson (wn.com)

What’s next

The Tigers will be closely monitoring Torkelson's progress during spring training as they hope he can bounce back and regain his status as a top prospect.

The takeaway

Torkelson's struggles in 2024 and 2025 were a setback, but the Tigers still believe in his potential and are giving him the opportunity to prove himself in 2026. If he can return to his 2023 form, it would be a major boost for the Tigers' lineup and their playoff aspirations.