Detroit Tigers outfielder Riley Torkelson ended a lengthy home run drought with a decisive blast in Thursday’s victory over the Cleveland Guardians, delivering both a personal milestone and a key contribution to his team’s win.
The solo home run came in the fifth inning off Guardians pitcher Tanner Bibee, marking Torkelson’s first long ball since April 10 against the Chicago White Sox—a span of 15 games without a homer. The shot traveled 418 feet to left-center field at Comerica Park, according to Statcast data, and gave Detroit a 3-1 lead they would not relinquish.
“It feels good to get one out of the park,” Torkelson said after the game. “I’ve been putting in the operate, staying ready, and trusting my process. A win in my eyes—both for me and for the team.”
The Tigers went on to win the game 5-2, improving their record to 18-19 on the season. Torkelson finished 2-for-4 with a run scored and an RBI, while likewise drawing a walk and striking out once.
His home run broke a 0-for-15 skid with no extra-base hits dating back to April 10, during which he had hit just .167 with three RBIs. The drought had been a point of concern for Detroit’s lineup, which entered the game averaging just 3.8 runs per game—10th in the American League.
“Riley’s been swinging the bat well lately, even when the results weren’t showing,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “Tonight, he got one out in front of the plate and drove it. That’s what we’ve been waiting to see.”
Torkelson, the No. 5 overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft, has shown flashes of power since his debut, including a 25-homer rookie season in 2022. However, his 2024 campaign had been hampered by inconsistency, entering Thursday with a .218 batting average and just four home runs in 101 at-bats.
With the homer, Torkelson now has five on the season and is hitting .231 over his last 10 games. His on-base percentage during that stretch has risen to .340, reflecting improved plate discipline.
The Tigers will look to build on the momentum as they continue a six-game homestand, facing the Guardians again Friday in the second game of the series.
Fans reacted positively to the moment on social media, with many noting the significance of the breakthrough for a young player expected to be a cornerstone of Detroit’s future.
As the Tigers push toward contention in a competitive AL Central, contributions from players like Torkelson—especially in the form of timely power—will be critical.
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