BREAKING: Gleyber Torres returned to Yankee Stadium on July 15, 2025, ready to face his former team as the All-Star second baseman for the Detroit Tigers. Sporting a fresh haircut from the Yankees’ team barber, Torres stepped onto the field, reflecting on his past with the organization that raised him but chose not to retain him after last season.
In a candid pre-game interview, Torres addressed the decision, stating, “No, not really,” when asked if he felt disappointed by the Yankees’ lack of interest. “I know it’s a business.” This marks nearly a year since he last wore the Yankees’ iconic pinstripes, concluding his tenure with a painful Game 5 loss against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series.
Torres, once heralded as a top-five prospect in baseball, has had a tumultuous journey since his All-Star seasons. After struggling defensively and facing challenges at the plate, he entered free agency. Ultimately, he signed a one-year, $15 million deal with the Tigers, seeking to revitalize his career with a team that made an impressive postseason push in 2024.
As he prepared for the game, Torres reflected on his time in New York, stating, “I really loved playing in New York… It was never pressure. It’s just frustration in the moment because I didn’t do my job.” Despite the bittersweet emotions, he is focused on the present, emphasizing his commitment to performing for Detroit and contributing to the team’s success.
Entering Tuesday’s game, Torres was batting .259 with 15 home runs and a .758 OPS in 128 games this season. His performance has notably improved, particularly with a batting average of .347 with runners in scoring position and achieving a career-high in walks.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone praised Torres, noting, “He’s a staple in their lineup… He’s kind of carried it over there and been really consistent for them.” This acknowledgment underscores the impact Torres has made since joining the Tigers.
Torres attributes part of his success to the lineup he’s hitting behind, including stars like Juan Soto and Aaron Judge. He has learned to practice patience at the plate, trusting his teammates to drive in runs when needed. This strategic shift has significantly increased his on-base percentage, which has risen by more than 30 points from the previous year.
The Tigers have also embraced aggressive baserunning, a tactic Torres feels the Yankees did not emphasize during his time with them. As he aims for a potential World Series title with Detroit, Torres expressed gratitude for the fans in New York: “I really liked the fans and everything from when I was playing here.”
As the game unfolds, all eyes will be on Torres to see if he can continue his impressive season against his former team. With a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to excellence, Gleyber Torres is determined to make this season a defining moment in his career.
