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Chris Taylor injury may change Los Angeles Dodgers plans

By David Hill

Jul 1, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers left fielder Chris Taylor (3) scores in the eighth inning against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 1, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers left fielder Chris Taylor (3) scores in the eighth inning against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Chris Taylor has been an important piece for the Los Angeles Dodgers over the years. The super utility man had been noted for his ability to play virtually anywhere on the diamond and ability to hit for power, becoming a key part of their lineup. Although he has primarily been the Dodgers’ left fielder this year, he could always return to the infield if the need was there.

Instead, the Dodgers will be without one of their more versatile players. Taylor suffered a small fracture in his left foot and will be heading to the Injured List, leaving another hole in their outfield for an unknown amount of time.

Loss of Chris Taylor could change Los Angeles Dodgers’ plans

Taylor had not been the player this season that he was over the past few years. He had produced a disappointing .238/.319/.409 batting line in 285 plate appearances, hitting six homers and 19 doubles while striking out 101 times. However, he was still drawing walks and at 31 years old, with his track record, there was every reason to believe he could turn his season around.

His absence leaves a larger question. The Dodgers are already trying to find a way to limit Mookie Betts’ time in the outfield for now as he has come back from a fractured rib, although he had spent time in right in all three of those contests. Taylor’s injury may force the Dodgers to put Betts in the outfield more frequently than they would want due to a lack of options.

This could also change the Dodgers’ plans at the trade deadline. Cody Bellinger has struggled to produce a batting average above his body weight, making center field a possible target. Now the Dodgers may have to look for another outfielder as well, even if Trayce Thompson has had a strong 39 plate appearances thus far.

These injuries are certainly the last things that the Dodgers needed. As it is, they were already likely to look for another piece in the rotation and depth in the bullpen. Now they have to add at least one outfielder as well.

Next. This could be it for David Price. dark

Chris Taylor has been a major part of the Los Angeles Dodgers lineup over the years. His absence may change their plans at the deadline.

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