Gleyber Torres revels in Yankees fans’ warm welcome — even as hurt lingers

There was a stillness in the air as the loudspeaker boomed over George M. Steinbrenner Field on Monday to announce the Tigers lineup, anticipating a reaction to a former Yankee.

Yet, it was quickly erased when applause rang out throughout the crowd for Detroit’s leadoff hitter, Gleyber Torres.

“I was a little surprised by the fans,” Torres said after he went 1-for-3 with two RBIs in a 10-2 loss to the Yankees. “They welcomed me really good. I know everybody there. So, it’s fun. It’s just like, you know, good competitor, and trying to both be ready for the season.”

The 28-year-old, who hit a two-run double against young talent Will Warren that brought the Tigers within one run of the Yankees in the top of the third inning, is hoping to get a fresh start in Detroit on a one-year, $15 million deal after his unwillingness to move from second to third base was largely the reason general manager Brian Cashman chose to move on from Torres, despite not having a concrete solution for the spot.

Gleyber Torres of the Detroit Tigers runs to first base.

Last week, Torres still seemed hurt by the decision.

“I feel I deserve to be with an organization that wants me,” he said Wednesday. “I’m here now and that’s the reason I’m here.” 

When asked if he felt he was no longer wanted by the Yankees, Torres said, “I don’t know. Maybe you can ask him.” 

It was a reference to Cashman, who seemingly ticked off Torres last month when he told YES Network that he wanted Torres to move over to third base after trading for Jazz Chisholm Jr. last year. 

Torres, who spent his whole career with the Yankees until the trade, clarified on Monday that he has not spoken to Cashman since leaving the Bronx, nor manager Aaron Boone.

Gleyber Torres of the Detroit Tigers looks on from second base.

However, he has stayed in touch with several former teammates, who have commented on his facial hair change.

“I remember I posted my first picture on social media and a bunch of guys texted me ‘Oh, you look weird.’ It’s fun. It’s been fun,” Torres said. “The relationships I have made there with my boys is amazing. Anywhere we at, so we want to continue.”