Gleyber Torres has experienced a dramatic transformation since leaving the New York Yankees and joining the Detroit Tigers. Once a highly-touted prospect struggling to meet expectations in the Bronx, Torres is now thriving in Detroit. This article explores his journey, the challenges he faced with the Yankees, and the reasons behind his newfound success.

Early Promise with the Yankees

When Gleyber Torres first broke into Major League Baseball with the New York Yankees, fans had high hopes. He quickly displayed his hitting talent and contributed important plays. However, over the years, Torres began to struggle both defensively and on the basepaths. Critics pointed to his inconsistencies, and the Yankees organization made several attempts to help him adjust, but it never paid off the way everyone hoped.

According to FanSided, Torres recently suggested that the Yankees' approach might have held him back. Issues with position changes and coaching confusion seem to have frustrated Torres throughout his time in New York. While he showed flashes of brilliance at the plate, his confidence on defense and in his running game faded.

New Beginnings with the Detroit Tigers

The 2025 MLB season marks a turning point for Gleyber Torres. Since joining the Detroit Tigers, he has found the support and coaching that eluded him with the Yankees. Torres credits Tigers manager AJ Hinch and a clear communication style for the improvement in his all-around game. He notes a substantial growth in his baseball IQ, especially in baserunning and fielding, with only one error so far this season—compared to the 18 errors he committed last year in New York.

Torres shared, "From the beginning of spring training, I was in the dugout and I saw everybody running first to third. I didn’t do that before. It’s a brand new game for me." His comments highlight the difference in team culture and development strategies between the two clubs. Read more about his criticism of the Yankees' player development approach here.

Recent Highlights on the Field

Torres' improvement with the Tigers is more than just talk—it’s showing up in the box score. On May 2, 2025, Gleyber Torres delivered a booming solo home run to left-center field, giving the Tigers a lead and showcasing his renewed confidence at the plate. Watch the highlight of Torres' home run here.

These performances reinforce the belief that Torres has turned the page in his career. He credits his teammates' maturity and the Tigers' aggressive but smart play for helping him find his best form.

The Takeaway: A New Chapter for Gleyber Torres

The Gleyber Torres story is about second chances and the impact of the right environment. His journey from the Yankees to the Tigers shows how a change in coaching, team culture, and support can transform a talented but struggling player into an essential contributor.

As Torres continues to impress with Detroit, fans and analysts will watch his progression closely. For more insights into MLB player transformations and team dynamics, be sure to follow detailed coverage from reputable sources like FanSided.