Dodgers News: Chris Taylor Finding Something in Swing But it Might be a Little Too Late
Entering the 2023 season, the Dodgers don't have the same expectations as they've had in years past. They will still be a threat, but not on paper (if that matter any). Many players will need to step up, whether it will be their first full major league year or veterans.
One of those vets needing to step up for LA is their utility All-Star Chris Taylor. Taylor struggled mightly in 2022; his numbers all across the board were his lowest since becoming a Dodger.
However, he will look to redeem himself in 2023, and Dodgers skipper Dave Roberts has loved what he's been seeing from Taylor as of late.
Roberts told OC Register's J.P. Hoornstra that the utility player might've found something.
“I’ve been more encouraged the last couple days, to be honest,” Roberts said. “(Taylor) was really searching, out of whack. I think he’s found a little something. Still a work in progress. The last couple days for me he’s had better intent. I think he’s seeing the ball much better. Swinging shorter.”
Taylor had seven fewer strikeouts than in 2021 but had close to 100 fewer ABs in 2022. Overall, it was a nightmare of a season for CT3; nonetheless, he feels like 2023 will be different and feels he could hit against anybody.
“It’s a long season. I’m not thinking about the whole year,” Taylor said. “I’m just trying to get myself right. If I play the way I’m capable of, I’ll play against lefties and righties.”
We've seen a red-hot Taylor, and we've seen a cold Taylor as well. If he could find something in the middle for his sake and the Dodgers' sake, he could take LA to the next level.
CT3 revitalized his career in LA, and he must do so again this season if he wants to solidify himself as a common fixture in the lineup.
