National League executive thinks Detroit Tigers need to improve their play at first base

The 2024 season has been a fantastic one for the Detroit Tigers, who find themselves in the thick of the playoff race at the end of September.

The Tigers have certainly exceeded expectations this season, as few would have believed they would be in the situation they are in. Right before the trade deadline, Detroit made the decision to trade as it seemed unlikely they would make the playoffs.

On deadline day, the Tigers cut players like Jack Flaherty and Mark Canha because the impending free agents weren’t expected to be part of Detroit’s long-term plan. Getting a few quality prospects in return made sense at the time because it looked like it was going to be another losing season for the Tigers.

But since the trades, Detroit has been one of the best teams in baseball and has stormed to the top of the American League standings. Despite trading away top-tier pitcher Flaherty, the Tigers have relied on their pitching staff to throw seemingly important game after important game late in the game.

While the Tigers have been solid for most of the season, the lineup has lacked some bop as the season progresses. It’s worth noting that one position that has lacked production is first base.

Spencer Torkelson has been Detroit’s first baseman most of the past three years, with mixed results. A National League executive recently spoke of first base as a position the Tigers should improve this offseason.

“Torkelson got a chance, but I’m not sure he consistently showed what they were hoping he would be, that he would be fully capable,” NL executive Mark Feinsand told MLB.com. “I wouldn’t say they should cut him, but I certainly wouldn’t shy away from Alonso if he was there.”

Potentially acquiring Pete Alonso would be a huge hit for Detroit, as he’ll likely be the best first baseman available in free agency. The Tigers should have the money to make a big move this offseason if they want to, and the New York Mets’ slugging first baseman certainly would.

While Torkelson had 31 home runs in 2023, he has been very inconsistent in his young career. A team looking to take the next step forward can’t wait forever for prospects to figure it out, and their first baseman has had plenty of chances.

Furthermore, it will be interesting to see what happens in Detroit throughout the rest of the season and into free agency, as these could be some big players.