Former Kansas City Royals, Minnesota Twins' CF Reportedly Wants This Much Money in Free Agency
Former Gold Glove-winning outfielder Michael A. Taylor is still unsigned this offseason, and we know a little bit more about what he's looking for in terms of a deal.
Per Ken Rosenthal of 'The Athletic:'
One holdup for free-agent center fielder Michael A. Taylor, according to sources briefed on his discussions, is that he sees himself as comparable to Kevin Kiermaier and Harrison Bader, both of whom received one-year, $10.5 million free-agent contracts.
Taylor, who turns 33 later this month, is not without an argument. Kiermaier, 33, was 13 outs above average in 129 games in center last season, according to Statcast. Bader, 29, was nine outs above average in 98 games, Taylor nine above in 129 games. All quality defenders, in other words.
In addition to his solid defense, Taylor also offers some offensive value. He hit 21 homers for the Minnesota Twins in 2023 and also drove in 51. He stole 13 bases and is still a threat on the basepaths.
Taylor just finished up his 10th year in the big leagues with the Nationals, Royals and Twins. His best year overall was with the 2017 Nationals, when he hit 19 homers and drove in 53. He was also part of the 2019 Nationals team that beat the Houston Astros in the World Series. His Gold Glove came with the Royals.
He's been connected to multiple teams this offseason but some of those suitors have come and gone. The incumbent Twins traded for Manuel Margot and the Blue Jays brought back Kiermaier.
The San Diego Padres still have needs in the outfield, but nothing has materialized yet there, either.
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