White Sox acquire OF Michael Taylor from Athletics

In the Oakland Athletics organization Michael Taylor, a talented and extremely tall outfielder, seemed like he might be a perennial minor leaguer. Even with right fielder Josh Reddick on the disabled list, A’s have more than enough outfield depth with Coco Crisp, Yoenis Cespedes, Craig Gentry. They also have catcher Stephen Vogt and first baseman Brandon Moss who are so versatile that they have been able to seamlessly transition into the outfield as needed. That doesn’t leave a lot of need left to call-up Michael Taylor.

There is also the issue that in recent years Taylor’s numbers, when called up to the big leagues, have been less than stellar. He’s only had a few chances with the club so it is a small sample of numbers, but in 2011 he batted .200 in 11 games, .143 in six games and in 2012 he batted .043 in nine games with the Athletics. So he hasn’t had big league success causing him to remain in Triple-A Sacramento for the time being.

With more major league plate appearances he may have the potential to do better, at least the Chicago White Sox think so. Saturday the White Sox acquired Taylor from the A’s for minor league pitcher Jacob Sanchez.

According to Baseball-Reference, the 24-year old right-hander, hasn’t pitched above the Single-A level. However, Sanchez does own a 2.80 ERA and a 66:14 strikeout to walk ratio over 61 innings at Single-A Kannapoli so far this season.

This should be a good trade for both clubs as there is big league potential for both players that may just take some time to develop. Taylor, who’s only real flaw is that he is already 28-years old, is MLB ready but needs more at-bats, while Sanchez has talent but needs more minor league experience before being called-up to the big leagues.

The White Sox may need a bat and the Athletics, whose pitching is great now, will need a pitcher in the future.