The New York Yankees showed no interest in re-signing infielder. Although Torres was the team’s starting second baseman, the Yankees did not extend him a qualifying offer. After becoming a free agent, Torres received multiple offers and ultimately agreed to a one-year, $15 million deal with the Detroit Tigers.
Torres mentioned that the Yankees never communicated with him or made any offer, leading him to believe he wouldn’t be returning to New York.
“After the World Series, I received many calls from other teams and focused on securing an opportunity elsewhere,” Torres said. “I want to play for a team that values me and gives me the chance to contribute. I have great friends in New York, and I’ve had wonderful communication with the organization. I’m proud of my seven years with the Yankees, but now I’m with Detroit, and I’m really happy they gave me the opportunity to play next year. I think the Yankees have different priorities, and I’m not part of them. I’m fine with that.”
It’s surprising that the Yankees didn’t offer Torres a contract, considering he was a regular starter last season. However, it seems New York wanted to move in a new direction, leading Torres to sign with the Tigers.
Torres posted a .257 average with 15 home runs and 63 RBIs in 2024 with the Yankees.
Torres Thanks Yankees in Classy Statement
Despite not receiving an offer from the Yankees, Gleyber Torres shared a heartfelt message thanking the organization for everything.
“Wow, where do I start or how do I start?” Torres wrote. “Thank you. The Yankees have been my family since 2016. A simple boy from Venezuela with big dreams of playing in the most iconic city in the world, the Yankees gave me all the love and support I needed to make my childhood dream come true. Wearing the pinstripes was an honor for me and my family. To the entire organization, coaches, and game day staff, thank you. You taught me so much both on and off the field, even the little things, and I’ll always carry them with me.”
He continued, expressing his gratitude to the fans: “Yankee Fans, thank you for everything. Your unwavering support meant so much. You were there to motivate me through the highs and the lows. My teammates, I love you all. Thank you for the great experiences and for trusting me, allowing me to compete alongside you toward the same goal since day one. You will always be with me. Thank you, New York Yankees.”
Torres spent parts of seven seasons with the Yankees and earned All-Star honors in 2018 and 2019.
Who Will Play Second Base for New York?
With Gleyber Torres joining the Tigers, the Yankees now have a vacancy at second base. It’s expected that New York will move Jazz Chisholm Jr. to second, while DJ LeMahieu could shift to third base, provided he’s healthy.
The Yankees have also been linked to Alex Bregman, who could fill the third base role. However, all indications suggest that Chisholm Jr. will be the Yankees’ second baseman for the 2025 season.
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