With the Los Angeles Dodgers placing a significant importance on versatility, they leaned heavily on Kiké Hernandez and Chris Taylor over the past handful of seasons. Both players embraced their utility role and provided stellar defense at every position.
While that has come across naturally in their play, it required a mental adjustment for Taylor. “I think when you’re first starting to do that, it’s easy to fall into the trap of you just want to be adequate,” he said of playing all over the field.
“When you’re playing multiple positions, especially when you’re at a spot you haven’t played a ton of, it’s easy to tell yourself, ‘OK, don’t make any mistakes. Just do enough to make the routine play.’
“I think what I’ve learned is if you try to take it to the next level and try to be great everywhere, that’s a better mindset. I’ve always felt if you’re making aggressive mistakes, that’s better than making passive ones.”
Since trading for Taylor during the 2016 season, the Dodgers have placed him at second base, third base, shortstop and all three outfield positions. Taylor filled in for Corey Seager at shortstop during the 2018 season but otherwise has spent the better part of his Dodgers career in left field.
“I think maybe it could mean a little more second base,” he said of what to anticipate now that Hernandez joined the Boston Red Sox. “When we were both on the field, Kiké tended to be at second base and I would usually be shortstop or left field.
“So without Kiké here, I could possibly play a little more second base this year.”
But even with the potential increase of time spent up the middle, Taylor is anticipating being moved around. “The way they envision things right now, I think they see me playing all over the field,” he added.
Dodgers looking at Taylor as option at third base
Along with possibly seeing an increase in playing time at second base, Taylor also is preparing to potentially log innings at third base as well.
“Doc came up to me last week and asked me about it. I said I feel comfortable playing there if J.T. needs a day or whatever the case is,” Taylor explained. “I’ve been getting reps there to make sure I feel comfortable going in there during a game situation.
“I’ve played a handful of games there in the past. I just told him whatever is going to get me on the field. Second base, shortstop, third base, it’s just another spot that allows me to get in the lineup.”
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, participate in our shows and giveaways, and more!
