Tork

There’s a question here in the Detroit area that has really caught on with baseball fans — “Who is your Tiger?”

Every year since this was first posed by some ad agency in town, I’ve never really cared. I’m an Orioles guy from way back in the day.

That said, the Tigers are still my hometown team, and I have a ton of great memories wrapped around that old English D — and more to come, too, I’m sure.

This season however, albeit we’re like a month into it, I’ve got an answer to that question, and I believe it’s one that hobby lovers can benefit from as well.

Who’s my Tiger?

Spencer Torkelson.

I know, the dude has been nothing short of awful for the majority of his brief career here in the Motor City, but what I’ve seen so far this spring, he may have figured a few things out at the plate.

Tork has slugged four homers, is hitting an even .300, knocked in 8 and, more impressive, he’s got an OPS of 1.023 — in 30 at bats thus far in 2025.

I know, it’s still spring training. It’s still just a handful of at bats, but let’s face it — it’s progress, and it very well could be a glimpse into what could be a breakthrough season for the No. 1 overall pick in the draft — something many of us in Detroit have been waiting for since day 1.

And his hobby, well, let’s just say it’s a great time to buy.

A 2022 Topps Chrome Update purple RC of Tork went for $1.14 not too long ago, while the same gold /50 went for less than $40 recently! In today’s world, those are basement prices.

So what am I sayin?

If you’re going to take a flyer on a player this season, someone who may be able to make some noise on the field and in the hobby — give Tork a chance.

I can tell you this — Tork is my Tiger this season..