Rowdy Tellez and Michael A. Taylor Landing Spots: 3 potential destinations for the veterans after being DFA'd by the Pirates
The Pittsburgh Pirates made a series of notable roster moves on Tuesday by designating Rowdy Tellez and Michael A. Taylor for assignment. Now that Pittsburgh finds itself firmly out of the postseason picture, the club no longer needs the services of the veterans. Instead, the club has seemingly opted to give some playing time to players who could have a role for the team in the near future.
It's been a disappointing campaign for both Rowdy Tellez and Michael A. Taylor as the pair have struggled to make much of an impact at the plate this year. That being, even though neither player made much of an impact for the Pirates, they could still find themselves on a roster before the end of the year even though none of them is eligible for the postseason.
Here's a look at 3 potential landing spots for Rowdy Tellez after being DFA'd by the Pirates
Minnesota Twins
The Minnesota Twins currently find themselves in standings free fall. After looking like they would be able to secure an AL Wild Card spot, the Twins now find themselves on the outside looking in. At this point of the season, the club cannot afford to hold anything back.
Enter Rowdy Tellez who could provide the club with some additional bench depth for the final games of the season. Although the former Pirates slugger has struggled, he added 35 home runs back in 2022. He could be an intriguing pinch-hitter for the Twins as they look to secure a postseason berth.
Kansas City Royals
Speaking of an AL Wild Card, the Kansas City Royals are currently barely hanging on to one of those coveted spots. After losing Vinnie Pasquantino to significant injury, the Royals have taken shots on a number of DFA'd players, including Tommy Pham and Hunter Renfroe.
At this point, adding Rowdy Tellez may seem redundant, however, with the Wild Card race coming down to the final day, having one more proven hitter never hurts. Even if he never makes an appearance, he could provide the team with some additional flexibility as they look to lock down a playoff spot.
Seattle Mariners
One more club that could turn to Rowdy Tellez for the remainder of the year are the Seattle Mariners. The playoff hopefuls have struggled offensively all season long and with a postseason berth on the line, adding the pending free agent for their final games of the year. That being said, with such a limited number of games remaining, the former Pirates slugger may end up in offseason mode.
Here's a look at 3 potential landing spots for Michael A. Taylor after being DFA'd by the Pirates
Detroit Tigers
The Detroit Tigers hold their playoff destiny in their own hands. After an important win on Tuesday against the Tampa Bay Rays, the Tigers inched closer to a postseason berth. At this point of the season, they can't leave any stone unturned, which could include a brief tenure for Michael A. Taylor.
While Taylor might be a negative at the plate, he is a positive in the outfield, which could help the Tigers down the stretch. There is limited time remaining in the year, so a game or two from the former Pirates outfielder could help them clinch a Wild Card spot.
Boston Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox might need a small miracle to reach the postseason at this point, however, stranger things have happened. Bringing in a Gold Glove-winning outfielder could give the club a boost for their late-season push. Although it seems possible that both Pirates veterans go unclaimed, Michael A. Taylor could be worth a flier for Boston.
Seattle Mariners
The Seattle Mariners could opt to claim the other Pittsburgh Pirates veteran Michael A. Taylor if they are looking for additional depth. Like Tellez, Taylor has also endured a difficult campaign, however, the outfielder is coming off the best season of his career last year. His defense is his best asset at this point, but if he can channel his 2023 form a few games, it could be massive, but that may be a big ask.