The Minnesota Twins are bringing back a familiar face to mentor their future stars! In a move that will excite fans and players alike, the Twins have appointed former outfielder Michael A. Taylor as an outfield instructor for the upcoming season.
A New Role for a Veteran Player:
Michael A. Taylor, who hung up his cleats after the 2025 season, will now pass on his expertise to the next generation of Twins outfielders. At 34 years young, Taylor has plenty of knowledge to share, especially in the areas he excelled in: defense and baserunning. But here's where it gets interesting... Despite his impressive defensive skills, Taylor only managed to snag one Gold Glove during his career.
Defensive Mastery:
Taylor's defensive prowess is undeniable. He patrolled center field for 7,473 innings in the majors, racking up an impressive 83 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) and 58 Outs Above Average (OAA). These numbers place him among the elite defenders of his era. From 2014 until his final game, only six players accumulated more DRS than Taylor's 97, including renowned fielders like Kevin Kiermaier and Nolan Arenado. And this is the part most people miss—Taylor achieved this feat while often being a fourth outfielder, which limited his playing time.
Baserunning Prowess:
Taylor's speed and baserunning instincts were also a force to be reckoned with. He successfully stole 128 bases out of 163 attempts, boasting a remarkable 79% success rate. This skill set is a valuable asset for any team looking to create scoring opportunities.
A Mentor in the Making:
While Taylor won't be joining the big league coaching staff, his role is crucial. He'll spend several weeks in camp this spring, working closely with the Twins' minor league outfielders. The organization, known for its strong tradition of center fielders, is giving Taylor the chance to impart his wisdom and guide the development of their young talents. This move could be the first step in a potential coaching career for Taylor, as he assesses his post-playing aspirations.
The Twins' decision to bring Taylor on board is a testament to their commitment to fostering defensive excellence and nurturing the growth of their prospects. It's a win-win situation, as Taylor gets to stay involved in the game he loves, and the Twins' outfield of the future benefits from his mentorship. What do you think about this move? Is Taylor the right person to mentor the Twins' young outfielders? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
