Michael A. Taylor Landing Spots: 3 potential destinations for former Gold Glove winner coming off disastrous season with the Pirates
It was a year to forget for veteran outfielder Michael A. Taylor. After signing a one-year, $4 million deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates ahead of the 2024 regular season, Taylor was anticipated to bring veteran leadership to the up-and-coming club. Unfortunately, things did not go according to plan.
Taylor struggled for the majority of 2024, posting a disappointing .193 batting average with five home runs and 21 RBIs over 113 games. While this was one of the worst seasons of his MLB career, he is only 33 and could have plenty of life left in his bat. His poor performance this past season might force the outfielder to sign another one-year contract.
In 2023, Michael A. Taylor set a career-high with 21 home runs, showcasing his ability to be a threat at the plate as well as a Gold Glove talent in the outfield. This could help him land a new deal this year. If he can rediscover his 2023 form, Taylor could be a low-risk, high-reward signing for several clubs.
Here are three teams that could acquire Michael A. Taylor in free agency.
3 potential landing spots for Michael A. Taylor in free agency
#1. Minnesota Twins
Who doesn't love a good reunion? The Minnesota Twins could be an intriguing landing spot for Michael A. Taylor since he enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career there in 2023. If the Twins are going to push for a deep postseason run, they will need as much depth as possible. Taylor will likely be an affordable option who could help the Twins this season, even if he has to settle for a platoon role.
#2. Colorado Rockies
The Colorado Rockies may not be considered a landing spot for some of the top free agents on the market, but they have shown a willingness to bolster their roster with veterans. The team has already added Thairo Estrada on a $3.25 million deal, which could represent a similar price range for Taylor.
The Rockies are in a rebuilding phase and adding veterans such as Taylor and Estrada could help mentor younger players while providing the team with potential trade chips. Given the home-run-friendly confines of Coors Field, Taylor might see his power numbers bounce back with a move to Colorado.
#3. Toronto Blue Jays
The Toronto Blue Jays have expressed interest in Taylor in the past, so there is a chance they could pursue him again. The Blue Jays are expected to spend aggressively this offseason in hopes of returning to postseason contention in 2025. While Taylor might not be a game-changer, he could be an essential depth piece for the Blue Jays on both sides of the ball.