The Detroit Tigers select first baseman Spencer Torkelson 1st overall in the 2020 MLB Draft

With the 1st overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft, the Detroit Tigers have selected first baseman Spencer Torkelson out of Arizona State.

Long considered the favorite to be picked first overall, Spencer Torkelson has raked against opposing pitching ever since arriving at Arizona State. Tork hit a total of 48 homers in his first two seasons at ASU while walking more than he struck out in college. The numbers he put up offensively are video game-esque as he posted an OPS over 1.100 every season he played in college. He projects as a prototypical cleanup hitter with big power from the right side and very real skill at getting on base while also being a well-rounded hitter.

Torkelson isn’t a perfect prospect by any means, though. While he won’t be cringeworthy defensively at first base, there is essentially little chance that he could play any position beyond first base. He also has a body type that, although it is worth mentioning that he was announced as a third baseman. doesn’t have the best track record of aging well and he was, at times, vulnerable to quality breaking balls. These are small quibbles though, as we are talking about arguably the best hitter in college baseball over the last few years. He is likely to blast through the minor leagues very quickly and then be a significant offensive threat for a long time.