The Vladimir Guerrero Jr. rumors this offseason have been exausting for Blue Jays fans. Most would love to lock him up long term, but his comments about Boston and his deadline to get an extension done are making things seem a bit more unlikely.
If there's not a chance for an extension, maybe a trade would be realistic so they can at least get something of value for the All-Star.
With that in mind, Toronto must remain open to alternate options so they don't get caught into an unfavorable situation down the road. Perhaps they can eye a future trade with the Detroit Tigers?
The Tigers haven't done much this offseason, but they signed Gleyber Torres, which forced Colt Keith to move over to first base. That displaced Spencer Torkelson for the time being, and now he's being viewed as a trade candidate. With how Detroit's roster is constructed, it appears that former number one overall pick will be on his way out before Opening Day.
Spencer Torkelson is an option for the Blue Jays if Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is traded
Torkelson has had his ups and downs throughout his short major league career, but he still brings a lot of power upside with him. His bat has the potential to be excellent and that was proven in 2023. Detroit knows that, even after his projection with the team is to be in Triple-A, and it's why they are reportedly looking for two top-15 prospects in return for the first baseman.
“The word is that the Tigers are looking for two Top 15 prospects in exchange for Spencer Torkelson” - Pat Ragazzo
— Tigers Torkmoil (@bythewaybro) January 28, 2025
For the Blue Jays, a top-15 prospect doesn't hold the same value as other teams because their farm system is not strong. That may be a hefty package from Toronto, but it is still something they should consider if they cannot lock up Guerrero Jr.
In 2023, Torkelson belted 31 home runs and 34 doubles to generate a slugging percentage of .446. But a weak on-base percentage of .313 to create left him at a .758 OPS. Additionally, he added a 108 wRC+ and drove in 94 runs.
His bat has a lot of upside, but he has not been able to consistently prove it at the major league level. In 2024, his wRC+ reached just 92 and his OPS sat at .669. First basemen need to have a more consistent power bat, especially if the strikeout numbers are high.
If Guerrero Jr. is on the trade block at any point, then Torkelson is a realistic option to secure for the next few years. He won't be a free agent until after the 2028 season, so a controllable first baseman makes sense given the upside he brings to the table.