Chris Taylor has been a key contributor for the Los Angeles Dodgers over the last several years, but he is currently in the midst of the worst season of his career.
Through 42 games, Taylor is batting a paltry .131/.230/.192 with one double, one triple, one home run and nine RBI in 99 at-bats. The 33-year-old’s batting average is the second lowest in baseball among players with at least 100 trips to the plate.
Taylor’s playing time has significantly decreased amid his struggles, but he will still get an occasional start against a left-handed pitcher. That will increase even more with Mookie Betts out.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has no issue penciling Taylor into the starting lineup, and explained his reasoning for continuing to stick by the veteran.
“I think I’m a big advocate on the game honors you,” Roberts recently said. “And C.T. even today, he was out here early hitting velocity and grinding.
“He’s a great teammate, he’s always on the bench, watching the games, ready when called upon. And obviously, with what he’s done for us and me throughout my tenure as a Dodger, he’s come up huge.
“He’s always prepared. So I think for me betting on the person is something a lot of times it’s pretty easy.”
While Taylor has provided next to nothing with his bat, he is still a hard worker and excellent teammate.
The utility man also provides value with his versatility as he is capable of playing six positions.
Roberts’ faith in Taylor may have some reward to it as he’s hitting .294/.368/.588 over his past seven games, which includes two extra-base hits and two stolen bases.
It’s a small sample, but perhaps a sign that Taylor has started to get back on track.
Chris Taylor staying focused despite frustrations
Although he is putting up historically bad numbers this season, Taylor has tried to keep a positive mindset. “I try to just take it day by day,” he recently said.
“I’ve definitely had my moments of frustration, but just trying to embrace the process and trust that my work is going to eventually come through for me. I know what I’m capable of, so just not losing sight of that and continuing to grind through.”
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