Why the Miami Marlins should steal a Tigers' slugger from their NL East Rival

A recent report suggests that the New York Mets are considering Detroit Tiger's first baseman Spencer Torkelson as a potential option as they navigate a messy saga with All-Star Pete Alonso. The Miami Marlins can swoop in and steal this plan from their NL East rivals.

Peter Bendix has a clear "player type" that he is targeting during his South Beach rebuild. Between adding assets like Deyvison De Los Santos. Agustin Ramirez. Kyle Stowers. Connor Norby, Matt Mervis, etc, it is clear that the future of Marlins baseball will be built on the backs of high-upside power hitters.

So, what is stopping Miami from being the #1 suitor for Spencer Torkelson?

The former #1 overall pick has had an odd career arc. Once a consensus top prospect in baseball, a combination of inconsistent play and strikeout issues have derailed Torkelson's career.

The slugger's career batting average is just .221, including an even poorer .219 in 2024. He has struck out a concerning 375 times while only drawing 105 walks. And, as a nail in the coffin, he has a career WAR of -0.3 during his three MLB seasons.

However, Torkelson clearly has the profile that Bendic values. His potential as a power hitter was on full display in 2023 when he mashed a career-high 31 home runs and 94 RBI. While most of the young Marlins are rostered due to their potential, Tork is the rare example of a player who has actually produced premier power production in The Show.

The asking price for Torkelson is also lower than many might expect. The Tigers' recent acquisition of infielder Gleyber Torres has shifted Colt Keith to first base. The former #1 overall pick is likely destined for another season in the minor leagues, with a ceiling of becoming a DH/1B platoon player in Detriot. It seems that a change of scenery would be beneficial for the player and the franchise.

In a recent episode of the Locked on Mets podcast, it was suggested that players like Paul Blackburn or Kevin Parada could be trade option in a potential deal between the Tiger and Mets. These are both low-value assets.

If this is indeed the price point, it stands to reason that the Marlins could compile an offer centered around someone like reliever Anthony Bender (who is the only projected player on their depth chart who is over 20 years old).

In all likelihood, Torkelson will remain a Matt-Mervis-typed player with big home run potential but inconsistent play. However, if the price is low enough, perhaps a change of scenery and a fresh start could help the 25-year-old slugger recapture his former potential.

Bendix and Miami's front offer should seriously consider poaching the Tigers' infielder from their NL East rivals.