The Detroit Tigers inked Gleyber Torres to a one-year deal on Saturday. The previous infielder for the New York Yankees signed in Detroit to serve as their regular second baseman. Furthermore, he rejected multi-year contract proposals in preference for a one-year agreement with one of the American League’s top success narratives in 2024.
Nonetheless, one of these proposals allegedly did not originate from his past team. In truth, the Yankees did not extend him a contract whatsoever, as reported by Chris McCosky of The Detroit News. New York allowed the two-time All-Star to depart the organization with no attempts made to keep him.
Torres arrived at the Yankees via trade in 2016. He subsequently became an All-Star in 2018 and 2019 with the Bronx Bombers. However, his offensive output declined thereafter. Additionally, his defense at second base also experienced a downturn. Ultimately, the Yankees believed it was time for both parties to progress.
Gleyber Torres reflects on departing Yankees
The Tigers weren’t the sole team keen on securing Torres. Indeed, reports surfaced that the former Yankees All-Star rejected a deal from the Washington Nationals before agreeing to terms in Detroit. Another franchise that was allegedly interested in him was the Los Angeles Angels.
Torres addressed the media for the first time as a Tiger on Sunday. He expressed pride in his achievements with New York. He did not verify whether the Yankees had made a contract proposal to him. However, he stated that he did not feel prioritized by his former team.
“I’ve got great friends there, great communication with the entire organization,” Torres articulated, via McCosky. “I feel proud of myself for being with the Yankees for seven years, but now I’m with Detroit and just really happy they gave me the chance to play next year. I think they have different priorities, and I’m not on the list. I’m good.”
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