Detroit Tigers’ first baseman Spencer Torkelson, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft, has been a cornerstone of the team’s resurgence in 2025, but recent health concerns have cast a shadow over his remarkable comeback season. After a challenging 2024 that saw him demoted to Triple-A, Torkelson has rebounded spectacularly, slashing .314/.419/.647 with 10 home runs and 15 extra-base hits through early May. However, whispers of a potential injury have sparked worry among fans and analysts, threatening to derail his redemption arc and the Tigers’ playoff hopes.
The health scare first surfaced in mid-April when Torkelson was unexpectedly left out of the lineup against the Milwaukee Brewers. Initial reports suggested he was healthy, with manager A.J. Hinch opting for a strategic rest day, marking Torkelson’s first absence of the season. “He’s been our best hitter,” Hinch said, downplaying concerns. “Just giving him a breather.” Yet, speculation persisted, fueled by Torkelson’s history of minor ailments and the physical toll of his aggressive, pull-heavy swing, which has seen his pulled-in-the-air rate soar to 39.1%, among the league’s highest.
Sources close to the team later revealed Torkelson had been managing lingering soreness in his lower back, a condition not uncommon for power hitters but potentially serious if aggravated. While no official injury report confirmed a diagnosis, the Tigers’ cautious approach—evident in his designated hitter appearances to reduce defensive strain—hinted at a proactive effort to protect their star. The team’s depth, bolstered by Colt Keith’s versatility and Gleyber Torres’ return from a rib injury, allowed Hinch to manage Torkelson’s workload without disrupting the lineup.
Torkelson’s 2025 performance has been nothing short of electric. His three-run homer against the Kansas City Royals on April 19 and a walk-off double against the Chicago White Sox on April 6 showcased his clutch ability, earning comparisons to Tigers legend Miguel Cabrera. His mechanical adjustments, including a more connected swing, have translated into a 1.088 OPS in late innings and a 74th percentile chase rate, signaling improved plate discipline. Yet, the specter of injury looms large, especially given teammate Casey Mize’s own recovery from Tommy John surgery, a reminder of how fragile success can be.
Fans on X have expressed a mix of concern and optimism. Posts reflect frustration over Torkelson’s past struggles but praise his resilience, with some urging the Tigers to prioritize his long-term health over short-term gains. “Tork’s carrying us, but don’t burn him out,” one user wrote. The sentiment underscores Torkelson’s importance to a Tigers team that’s 13-8 and eyeing a division title for the first time since 2014.
For now, Torkelson remains active, with no indication of a stint on the injured list. His recent performance, including a solo homer on May 4 against the Angels, suggests he’s managing the discomfort. Still, the Tigers’ medical staff is reportedly monitoring him closely, with imaging scheduled to rule out structural issues.
At 25, Torkelson is proving he’s no bust, but this health scare serves as a stark reminder of baseball’s unpredictability. As Detroit leans on him to anchor their lineup, the hope is that careful management will keep their slugger swinging through October—and beyond.
