Detroit Tigers fans are pinning their hopes on Spencer Torkelson and Casey Mize, two former No. 1 overall draft picks, to rise from their struggles and reignite the team’s competitive dreams in the 2025 season. The duo has long been seen as the future of the franchise, with Torkelson’s power at the plate and Mize’s precision on the mound expected to lead the Tigers to glory. However, as the season unfolds, their inconsistent performances have cast doubt on whether they can deliver when it matters most, leaving the team in a precarious spot.
Torkelson, the first overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft, started the season strong, boasting a team-leading 10 home runs and 27 RBIs by early May. But his bat has since gone ice-cold. In his last seven games, including a 5-2 loss to the Los Angeles Angels on May 4, 2025, he’s hitting a dismal .095, despite a solo home run that briefly sparked hope. His season average has dipped to .233, a far cry from the dominant slugger fans envisioned after his torrid spring training. On X, fans are vocal, with one user lamenting, “Torkelson’s supposed to be our guy—where’s the fire?”
Casey Mize, selected first overall in 2018, has also shown flashes of brilliance with a 5-1 record and a 2.12 ERA. Yet, his latest start against the Angels on May 1 was a struggle, as he surrendered four runs, including two home runs, over seven innings in a game the Tigers ultimately won 10-4 thanks to a late rally. While Mize’s overall numbers remain solid, his inability to dominate consistently has raised questions about his reliability in high-stakes moments. “Mize needs to step up if we’re serious about the playoffs,” a fan tweeted, echoing the sentiment of many.
The Tigers’ current situation adds urgency to their struggles. At 22-13, they lead the American League Central, but the team is grappling with mounting injuries. Outfielder Kerry Carpenter’s recent torn rotator cuff, suffered during a collision in the Angels series, could sideline him for the season, joining a growing list of sidelined players. The rotation, anchored by Mize and Tarik Skubal, remains a strength, but the offense has been erratic, overly reliant on veterans like Javier Báez to carry the load. Torkelson’s slump and Mize’s inconsistency threaten to derail the Tigers’ momentum at a critical juncture.
Fans are desperate for Torkelson and Mize to rediscover their form and lead the Tigers to the postseason. Manager AJ Hinch remains optimistic, saying, “They’re young, they’re talented—they’ll find their way.” But with a grueling schedule ahead and the AL Central race tightening, the pressure is on. Can Torkelson and Mize rise from the ashes, or will their struggles doom Detroit’s hopes? The answer could define the Tigers’ season.
