With a potential lockout looming Wednesday night, activity in MLB free agency picked up considerably over the past few days and for the Los Angeles Dodgers it amounted to seeing Max Scherzer and Corey Seager come off the board.
The Dodgers had reported interest in re-signing both players, but Scherzer was lured away by the New York Mets for a record average annual value, and Seager received a 10-year contract from the Texas Rangers.
Losing Seager has placed more of an emphasis on the Dodgers retaining Chris Taylor, who already was an important piece for the organization regardless of what unfolded with other free agents.
Taylor has drawn interest from several teams, and according to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, that includes the Seattle Mariners as they search for an infielder:
Sources: #Mariners remaining active in the infield market, with Chris Taylor, Kris Bryant, and Javier Báez among the free-agent options under consideration. @MLBNetwork @710ESPNSeattle @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 29, 2021
Along with the Dodgers and Mariners, the Miami Marlins, Philadelphia Phillies and Washington Nationals have reported interest in Taylor as well.
He played six different positions this past season, batting .254/.344/.438 with 25 doubles, 20 home runs and 73 RBI over 148 games.
Since being acquired from the Mariners in 2016, Taylor has hit .264/.341/.458 with 135 doubles, 25 triples, 79 home runs, 299 RBI and 50 stolen bases over parts of six seasons with the Dodgers.
Taylor has enjoyed Dodgers
After the Dodgers were eliminated in the National League Championship Series, Taylor reflected fondly on his time with the organization but couldn’t say for certain if it would lead to re-signing.
“It’s been a lot of fun playing with these guys,” Taylor began. “I’ve loved every minute of it. Definitely disappointed, but it’s been a joy to be part of this team.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen. All I can say is I’ve loved every minute I’ve been a Dodger. I have no idea what’s going to happen this offseason, but the last five seasons I’ve been here, it’s been amazing. I’m so thankful I’ve had the opportunity to play for the Dodgers.”
The Dodgers reportedly considered offering an extension to Taylor during the season, but it is unclear if they made a formal offer.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
