Chris Taylor Reveals Backstory on Dodgers' Turning Him Into Super Utility Man
The Los Angeles Dodgers are preparing for what should be a fun, exciting, and memorable season. Less than a week into spring training, their star players are getting the national spotlight one would expect.
One player who remains under the radar but still integral to the roster: Chris Taylor, the former All-Star and NLCS Most Valuable Player.
Taylor is entering his eighth full season with the Boys in Blue, and he’s been an unsung hero more times than not. The 33-year-old plays anywhere on the diamond and is willing to do what the Dodgers ask of him. That wasn’t always the case.
In an interview with our Doug McKain, Taylor admitted to being “stubborn” and only wanting to play shortstop when he first arrived in Los Angeles in 2016.
“I’m thankful I was kind of forced to step into that role when I got traded to the Dodgers. I was always very stubborn to be a shortstop and a shortstop only, and with Corey Seager there, that wasn’t really an option. So it kind of forced my hand to learn how to play outfield and play all over the field, and I think that’s been the best thing for my career and it’s really kept me on the field each and every year.”
— Chris Taylor, via Dodgers Nation YouTube
Eight years ago, Seager was an up-and-coming superstar who had earned his shot at shortstop. Taylor had no option but to be cooperative and do what was asked of him.
From day one, Taylor has played anywhere but pitcher, catcher, and first base for Los Angeles. And from day one, he’s been a trustworthy defender at every position.
That’s one of the traits that makes Taylor such a great teammate. He did right by the team, listened to coaches, and has come up clutch on both sides for the Boys in Blue. If Taylor was a selfish teammate, he might not have been given a long enough leash to grace Dodger fans with his web gems and big moments — to say nothing of a four-year, $60 million contract.
Now 33, Taylor’s versatility helps his cause to maintain a roster spot as much as his athleticism.
Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Have you subscribed to our YouTube Channel yet? Subscribe and hit that notification bell to stay up to date on all the latest Dodgers news, rumors, interviews, live streams, and more!
