BAD NEWS: Detroit Tigers Fans Choke Up and Pray as Spencer Torkelson Shares Heartbreaking News About His Baby Son
July 17, 2025 – Detroit, MI
The Detroit Tigers community was struck with a wave of emotion and concern this morning after Spencer Torkelson, the team’s star first baseman, revealed a deeply personal and heartbreaking update involving his infant son.
In a raw and emotional post shared to social media, Torkelson opened up about a medical emergency that unfolded last week — one that has left his family shaken and fans across the country offering support and prayers.
“Last Thursday was the scariest night of our lives,” he began. “Our son, Elias, suddenly stopped breathing in his crib. My wife and I were home. We called 911. I performed CPR until help arrived. By the grace of God, he’s still with us — but he’s been in intensive care ever since.”
The post was accompanied by a photo of Torkelson holding Elias in a hospital room, wires gently draped over the baby’s body, his tiny hand gripping his father’s finger.
A Sudden Medical Crisis
Torkelson explained that Elias, just 6 months old, suffered a sudden respiratory failure due to what doctors believe was a rare viral condition that caused swelling in his airway. While paramedics arrived quickly, Elias had to be resuscitated and placed on oxygen support.
“Nothing prepares you for that,” Torkelson wrote. “I’ve faced 100 mph fastballs. I’ve hit in front of 40,000 people. But nothing compares to seeing your child fighting to breathe and not knowing if he’ll make it.”
Doctors at Detroit Children’s Hospital have reportedly stabilized Elias, but he remains in the ICU for continued monitoring. The family has asked for privacy but has allowed updates through Torkelson’s account to keep fans informed.
Fans, Teammates, and Rivals React
The reaction across the sports world was immediate and deeply emotional.
Within an hour, “#PrayForElias” began trending on X (formerly Twitter), with thousands of fans, players, and media personalities offering messages of hope.
Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch addressed the team before their morning practice, sharing the news and leading a moment of silence.
“We’re a team, but more importantly, we’re a family,” Hinch said. “Right now, one of our brothers is hurting, and we’re going to support him every step of the way.”
Outfielder Riley Greene, Torkelson’s longtime teammate and friend, fought back tears during a post-practice interview.
“He’s the toughest guy I know,” Greene said. “But this… this broke us all. We’re just hoping and praying Elias gets to go home soon.”
Other teams chimed in too. The New York Yankees shared a message on their scoreboard before their game against the Orioles, reading: “Sending strength to Spencer Torkelson and his family.”
Miguel Cabrera, the Tigers legend and mentor to Torkelson, posted on Instagram:
“Te amamos, hermano. Stay strong. Elias is a fighter — just like his father.”
A Pause from Baseball
Torkelson, who has been one of the Tigers’ most consistent offensive players this season, is expected to take an extended leave of absence from the team. Sources close to the organization say the team is fully supportive and has placed no timeline on his return.
“Baseball can wait,” GM Scott Harris said. “This is about life. This is about family. Spence knows we’ve got his back.”
Torkelson’s locker in the clubhouse has since been filled with notes, drawings from teammates’ kids, and even a pair of infant-sized Tigers socks left by clubhouse staff.
The Tigers plan to hold a “#TeamElias” night this Friday, where fans can sign a giant get-well banner for the family. All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to pediatric respiratory research in Elias’s name.
A Father’s Final Words
In the closing lines of his message, Torkelson gave fans a glimpse into the strength and vulnerability of a young father facing his greatest challenge.
“This game has given me everything. But nothing — and I mean nothing — matters more than my family. Hug your loved ones. Tell them you love them. And please… keep praying for our little fighter.”
From the field to the hospital bedside, Spencer Torkelson is showing us what true strength looks like.
Tonight, Detroit doesn’t just stand behind its team — it stands behind one of its own.
#PrayForElias 💙
