Miguel Cabrera ready to cede Detroit Tigers first base job to Spencer Torkelson

As much as things change, there has been one constant in the world since 2008. Miguel Cabrera has been atop the Detroit Tigers depth chart at first base. Even as he has faded into his twilight years, Cabrera has been a nearly daily presence at the position, a steadying veteran even as the team battled through rebuilding projects.

But it is time for a change. Cabrera has stated that he is willing to move off of first base and transition into the Tigers’ designated hitter role. The reason – to get Spencer Torkelson into the lineup and on the roster as quickly as possible.

Miguel Cabrera ready to move from first for Detroit Tigers

The narrative has changed in Detroit. They were in the midst of a long rebuilding process, tumbling down the standings as they sought to add as many top prospects as possible. That plan has worked on paper, with a homegrown rotation and some impressive bats that are on the cusp of reaching the majors.

Now it is time to take those steps forward. The Tigers have made moves to do just that this offseason, adding Eduardo Rodriguez and Javier Baez to the roster. Their young arms are expected to take another step forward this season. But it will take more than a couple of players to make up that ground on the White Sox.

Torkelson can be a part of that step forward. He showed why he has been such a highly coveted last season, jumping from A-ball to Triple-A in the span of a year. He produced a .267/.383/.552 batting line in his 530 combined plate appearances, hitting 30 homers and 29 doubles. The Tigers need that type of pop in the middle of their lineup if they are going to contend in the upcoming year.

Cabrera was that type of player for the Tigers for years. He was a feared slugger in the middle of their lineup, someone who could change the game in one swing of the bat. But that time has come and gone; it is time to pass the torch.

Miguel Cabrera can see the writing on the wall. He is willing to move to the designated hitter role for the Detroit Tigers to get Spencer Torkelson in the lineup.