Michael Taylor
Outfielder Michael Taylor did everything asked of him and more in 2017. When Adam Eaton suffered an early season-ending injury, he took over and put together a career-year. What does 2018 hold for him?
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As previously predicted, Taylor is on the block to become a victim of the Victor Robles hype. Once Robles is MLB-ready, someone will need to move over. Taylor looks like the one to suffer.
Fortunately for Taylor, his time in Washington will not end due to poor performance. Instead, I see him getting shipped somewhere else to a center field needy squad. Whether it’s in exchange for minor league talent or possibly to upgrade their bullpen, I see the Washington Nationals flipping Taylor this summer.
The Nationals already have plenty of outfield depth. Behind Taylor, Eaton, and Bryce Harper they have the more-than-capable Brian Goodwin. Howie Kendrick and Wilmer Difo can also combine to play all three outfield positions. Putting it simply, the Nationals aren’t handcuffed to keeping Taylor if they have more significant needs.
For Taylor’s sake, I do hope to see him land with a contender. An injury could always open up a trade possibility to a contender.
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Taylor just doesn’t seem to fit into the Nationals’ future plans. While they would have room for him on the 2019 roster, the Nationals need to do what they can to win this year. If that means dealing Taylor for a relief pitcher, it’s a sacrifice I support.