As the 2025 MLB season reaches its sixth week, surprises abound. Notably, Pete Alonso has become a key MVP candidate despite initial struggles, while the American League East underperforms with only one winning team. Among the most significant developments is Spencer Torkelson’s resurgence after a disappointing previous season that saw him demoted to Triple-A. His experience and mentorship from Tigers’ manager A.J. Hinch have contributed to his current success, showing how early-season dynamics can alter player performance and expectations significantly.
Torkelson struggled so profoundly last year -- a .669 OPS, 10 homers and 105 strikeouts in 92 games -- that he entered 2025 without a clear path for playing time.
Tigers manager A.J. Hinch texted Torkelson almost daily after the team sent him down to Triple-A last June. At one point, the two even met up for breakfast.
Coming out of college, I felt like I had it figured out, was the greatest hitter ever," Torkelson said. "And I got humbled.
Now, early in his age-25 season, he looks like the feared hitter so many expected to see. Through 36 games, Torkelson has already equaled last year's home run total.
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