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A former NLCS MVP is now on the market as Rays' depth starts to dwindle

ByMason Stacy|
Athletics v Los Angeles Dodgers
Athletics v Los Angeles Dodgers | John E. Moore III/GettyImages

The outfield situation in Tampa Bay has been difficult to navigate with five injuries coming from those positions already in the young season. Josh Lowe has made his return and he's contributed considerably in recent games, but it didn't come without another loss to outfielder Travis Jankowski, as he joined the long list of players on the IL. Would a utility veteran presence be worth snagging for the long haul or is the price too high and risk too heavy?

Former NLCS MVP Chris Taylor has been released by the Los Angeles Dodgers

Chris Taylor was drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the fifth round of the 2012 draft. It only took a few seasons for the Virginia Beach product to make his big league debut for the Mariners. When Taylor received the call-up, he played all 47 games of his rookie season at the prominent shorstop position.

However, the adaptable athlete learned how to play multiple positions over his career, as he quickly became a Ben Zobrist-esque utility player. In 2015, Taylor played five games at separate infield positions, but he didn't broaden his horizons completely until he joined the Dodgers in 2016.

After a slow 2016 campaign in LA, Chris Taylor became a major part of the Dodgers' plans. His ability to play nearly every position was extremely valuable. In fact, during his 2017 season, the utility-man appeared in each fielding position except for pitcher, catcher, and right field. Right field was manned predominantly by Cuban sensation, Yasiel Puig.

The contribution Chris Taylor made to that organization was insurmountable. He played in at least 100 games in six straight seasons, not including the shortened Covid season. It would be so valuable for a veteran like him to join the Rays organization and battle for playing time with the youngsters. He could play a major role in pushing them to their limits, while also coaching them up through his personal experiences.

Moreover, Taylor could give the Rays some flexibility with his ability to play a multitude of positions. His presence would give Kevin Cash some freedom and expand his lineup potential with a solid bat and glove.