The New York Yankees have had a notably active offseason, and it appears their roster could undergo more changes in the near future. After losing one All-Star in free agency, they are now at risk of losing another, with Gleyber Torres potentially heading to the Los Angeles Angels. According to Zach Pressnell of Newsweek, Torres is predicted to sign a two-year, $25 million deal with the Angels in the coming weeks. This move would be a significant one for Los Angeles, which has already shown its ambition by acquiring starting pitcher Yusei Kikuchi early in the offseason.
Pressnell points out that the Angels are determined to build a competitive roster and are eager to win sooner rather than later. Signing Torres, despite his underwhelming 2024 season, would represent a low-risk, high-reward move for the Angels. In 2024, Torres posted a .257 batting average and hit 15 home runs, falling short of expectations. However, he still managed to produce an OPS+ over 100, indicating that he was still a productive player at the plate. With 138 career home runs, Torres brings power to the table and would be a relatively inexpensive addition to the Angels’ lineup.
Torres began his career with two consecutive All-Star selections and remains a player with potential, even if his recent performance has been less than stellar. Given the Yankees’ plans to pursue upgrades across the roster, particularly in the third base market, Torres’ role with the team may become redundant. If the Yankees acquire a new third baseman, it could shift Jazz Chisholm Jr. to second base, thereby eliminating the need for Torres.
Pressnell further suggests that the Angels should act quickly to secure Torres while the opportunity presents itself. Even if Torres does not meet expectations in the short term, Los Angeles could look to trade him at the deadline either this season or the next, potentially recouping value for a player they acquired on a relatively affordable contract. For the Yankees, while they have the financial flexibility to retain Torres, their focus is on improving their lineup and replacing the offensive production they are likely to lose when Juan Soto departs.
In summary, while the Yankees are still in a position to retain Gleyber Torres, they are exploring other avenues to strengthen their team, and the Angels are seen as a strong contender to sign him in the near future.
