To kick off the 2024 season, the New York Yankees haven’t witnessed the expected offensive output from their second baseman, Gleyber Torres, who signed a one-year, $14.2 million contract to avoid arbitration.
Despite his slow start, Torres is anticipated to draw significant interest if he becomes a free agent at the season’s end. Competition for his services might be fierce, potentially complicating the Yankees’ efforts to retain him.
Joel Reuter, in a piece for Bleacher Report, highlighted Torres as a top-10 prospect in the projected 2023-24 free agent class. While he hasn’t replicated his standout 38-homer season from 2019, Torres has evolved into an excellent all-around second baseman. Last season, he posted a 118 OPS+ with 25 home runs, 13 steals, and 2.9 WAR over 158 games. His age makes him an appealing candidate for a long-term contract.
In his seven-year MLB career, the 27-year-old Torres has compiled impressive stats that could earn him a lucrative deal in the upcoming seasons. With a career slash line of .264/.333/.447 and two All-Star selections in 2018 and 2019, Torres is a sought-after player.
However, his current offensive slump, batting just .186/.290/.209 in 86 at-bats, might dampen the magnitude of contract offers. Torres insists that the potential impact on his future contract hasn’t weighed heavily on him during this cold start, focusing instead on performing well for himself and the team.
Despite Torres expressing a preference for staying with the Yankees, there hasn’t been any discussion of a contract extension with the team. General Manager Brian Cashman remained non-committal when asked about Torres’ future with the club.
The Yankees’ ability to re-sign Torres might be hampered by payroll constraints, especially if he emerges as one of the top free agents as projected. With significant commitments already to players like Giancarlo Stanton, Gerrit Cole, and Aaron Judge for 2025, financial flexibility is crucial for pursuing their primary targets.
Additionally, the timing of Torres’ free agency could pose challenges for his future with the Yankees, as the team’s priority next offseason is securing an extension for Juan Soto, potentially limiting resources available for Torres.
