Michael A. Taylor #18 of the Pittsburgh Pirates
White Sox Bolster Outfield Depth with Michael A. Taylor Signing
The Chicago White Sox continue to add veteran experience to their outfield, finalizing a one-year, $1.95 million deal with Michael A. Taylor, per multiple reports. The move, confirmed Wednesday, brings in an elite defender with proven experience in the big leagues.
A Defensive Upgrade for Chicago
Taylor, 33, has built a reputation as one of the premier defensive outfielders in the game. A 2021 Gold Glove winner, he leads all MLB outfielders with 52 defensive runs saved since 2020. White Sox manager Will Venable emphasized Taylor’s versatility and impact on the team’s late-game defense.
“Excited about Michael, the defensive versatility, really like the defender,” Venable said at Camelback Ranch. “We know he can hit lefties. He gives us an opportunity to match some guys up. And late in games, (he) gives us some real good defense to end games.”
While Taylor’s offensive numbers have fluctuated throughout his 11-year career, his defensive prowess is undeniable. He owns a career slash line of .235/.290/.381 with 100 home runs and 353 RBIs across stints with the Nationals, Royals, Twins, and Pirates. Last season, he played 113 games for Pittsburgh, hitting .193 with five home runs and 21 RBIs.
A Crowded Outfield Mix
Taylor is the latest addition to an increasingly deep outfield group in Chicago. The White Sox previously signed Austin Slater and Mike Tauchman to one-year deals, adding more flexibility to their defensive alignment. With Luis Robert Jr. locked into center field, Taylor, Slater, and Tauchman provide strong options to rotate in at the corners and serve as defensive replacements late in games.
“We talk about ending games and finishing games,” Venable added. “And to have those two (Taylor and Robert Jr.) out there — talking about Austin Slater and Tauchman as well — we feel really good about our defense out there late in games.”
Roster Moves to Accommodate Taylor’s Arrival
To make room on the 40-man roster, the White Sox placed right-handed pitcher Jesse Scholtens on the 60-day injured list. Scholtens, who underwent Tommy John surgery last March, is still in the rehab process and is expected to miss the early part of the 2025 season.
Final Thoughts
While the White Sox still face plenty of questions heading into the 2025 season, adding Taylor strengthens their outfield defense and provides another right-handed bat. His veteran presence, along with the additions of Slater and Tauchman, gives Chicago more depth and flexibility in the outfield.
For a team looking to improve its defensive efficiency and find consistency in the lineup, Taylor could be a key piece to the puzzle.
