GOOD NEWS: Gleyber Torres Finds New Life as Tigers’ All-Star, Thanks to Detroit Fans Who Helped Save His Career

By [JOYCE]

DETROIT — For a while, it seemed Gleyber Torres might fade into another cautionary tale of wasted talent. Once hailed as one of baseball’s brightest young stars, the former Yankees infielder struggled through injuries, inconsistency, and relentless pressure in New York. By the end of the 2024 season, many doubted whether he’d ever recapture his All-Star form.

Now, less than a year later, Torres is not only back — he’s thriving, and in a new city that has fully embraced him. In a remarkable turnaround, Torres has become the Detroit Tigers’ starting second baseman and an American League All-Star for 2025. He credits one group more than any other for helping him rediscover his love for the game: Tigers fans.

“It’s been like getting a second chance at life,” Torres said after Sunday’s All-Star selection was announced. “Detroit believed in me when I stopped believing in myself.”

A Fall From Grace in New York

Torres arrived in New York as a top prospect, acquired from the Chicago Cubs in the Aroldis Chapman trade of 2016. By 2019, he was a two-time All-Star with 38 home runs under his belt and seemingly bound for stardom.

But injuries — particularly recurring core and groin issues — hampered him. His confidence eroded under the bright lights and endless scrutiny of New York media. In 2024, his batting average dipped to .223, and the once-slick infielder made costly errors in big moments.

“It felt like the walls were closing in on me,” Torres confessed. “Fans were booing, reporters were asking if I’d lost it. I couldn’t sleep. I felt like I was drowning.”

By August 2024, the Yankees were shopping him around. A deadline deal sent Torres to Detroit in exchange for minor-league pitching depth — a move met with little fanfare at the time.

A Fresh Start in Detroit

Tigers manager A.J. Hinch saw Torres as a perfect buy-low candidate with untapped upside.

“I told him: ‘You’re coming to a place where you’re wanted,’” Hinch said. “No pressure. Just play your game.”

From day one, Detroit fans welcomed Torres with open arms. On social media, hashtags like #WelcomeGleyber and #DetroitBelieves trended in September as he arrived.

“When I landed, people were cheering for me at the airport,” Torres said, shaking his head in disbelief. “In New York, I couldn’t even go to dinner without hearing how bad I was. In Detroit, they were chanting my name.”

A Remarkable 2025 Season

Through the first half of 2025, Torres has been a revelation. He’s batting .284 with a .798 OPS, 14 home runs, and 49 RBIs — his best numbers since 2019. But beyond the stats, his energy and passion have been impossible to miss.

“I’m having fun again,” Torres said. “I’m laughing in the dugout. I’m working hard but not feeling crushed by expectations.”

Fans have noticed. During a recent home stand, chants of “Gley-ber! Gley-ber!” echoed through Comerica Park every time he stepped to the plate.

“It’s like watching someone come back from the dead,” said season ticket holder Lisa McGrady. “He’s smiling. He’s clutch. And he’s a leader.”

An All-Star Nod — and Emotional Reaction

When All-Star selections were announced, Torres broke down in the clubhouse. Teammates surrounded him with hugs and high-fives.

“I couldn’t hold it in,” Torres admitted. “I thought my days as an All-Star were over. I felt washed up. This means everything.”

The Tigers’ social media team captured the moment in a short video that went viral. Fans flooded the comments with messages of pride and gratitude, praising his resilience.

“He’s not just an All-Star — he’s OUR All-Star,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “From forgotten Yankee to Detroit hero.”

Impact Beyond the Field

Torres’s comeback has resonated far beyond the diamond. In a city that’s seen its share of sports heartbreak, his story is a reminder of second chances and the power of belief.

“He represents hope,” Hinch said. “This city has been rebuilding for years. Gleyber’s story matches Detroit’s spirit: tough, determined, and ready to rise again.”

Torres has already become active in the Detroit community, partnering with local youth baseball programs and visiting schools to talk about overcoming adversity.

“I tell the kids, it’s okay to fail,” Torres said. “It’s about getting up the next day and trying again.”

Looking Ahead

Despite his resurgence, Torres knows there’s work to be done. The Tigers are currently battling for a playoff spot in the crowded AL Central, and he wants to be a part of returning postseason baseball to Detroit.

“I’m not done,” Torres said. “I want to bring October back here. These fans deserve it.”

For now, though, his journey serves as one of the most compelling comeback stories of the season.

“I thought baseball was over for me,” Torres said, voice thick with emotion. “Now I’m an All-Star again — and it’s because Detroit believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.”

From forgotten Yankee to Detroit’s golden boy, Gleyber Torres has proven that sometimes, all it takes to find yourself again is the right place — and the right people cheering you on.