3 center field trade targets for Miami Marlins
By David Hill
Michael Taylor
Michael Taylor was the other player specifically mentioned by Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald as a trade option for the Miami Marlins.
Taylor is not even close to being an impact bat. His .254/.313/.357 batting line with nine homers and ten doubles over 456 plate appearances was decent enough, but nothing special. However, that also marks his second best showing in his nine years in the majors, making it clear as to why he was viewed as a backup outfielder.
If there is one area where Taylor excels, it is with the glove. The 2021 AL Gold Glove winner in center, he saved 19 runs this season while ranking fourth in putouts and fifth in assists. He would be the defensive piece that the Marlins would need between Avisail Garcia and Jorge Soler, but any offensive upgrades would need to come from that duo returning to their 2021 form.
There is one advantage to pursuing Taylor. He is going to be 32 years old and is in the final year of a two year extension that he signed after the 2021 campaign. The Royals are rebuilding and do have options in the outfield that they could give an opportunity to. Taylor could be the cheapest of any of the viable trade options.
Michael Taylor could help fix the Miami Marlins’ outfield defense. He just would not help in the lineup.