The Detroit Tigers are making a monumental transition involving one of their franchise icons. Miguel Cabrera, who plans to retire after the 2023 season, will gracefully cede his spot to top prospect Spencer Torkelson this upcoming season.

Cabrera has spent the past 14 seasons with the Tigers. The two-time MVP and Triple Crown winner dominated during the 2010s and helped the team win the American League Pennant in 2012. Now, as he approaches 39 years of age, he understands that Torkelson is the future of the franchise.

According to Evan Woodbery of MLive Media Group, Cabrera bestowed a first baseman's glove upon Torkelson when it was annoucned that he would be on the Tigers' roster for Opening Day. Although Cabrera has spent the past few seasons as a designated hitter, the gesture is still very meaningful.

Torkelson, the top overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft, dominated minor-league competition in 2021. The 22-year-old posted an OPS of .881 while hitting 11 home runs in 40 games at the AAA level. Detroit will likely welcome another top prospect, outfielder Riley Greene, to their roster once he recovers from a fractured foot.

The Tigers are relying on Torkelson and Greene to develop into stars, which could take time. But they still want to remain competitive with new additions Javier Baez and Eduardo Rodriguez, who both signed huge deals in free agency with Detroit. With other solid youngsters like Akil Baddoo and Casey Mize also in place, Detroit could take its first step back towards being a powerhouse this season.