Chicago White Sox Sign Elite Defensive Outfielder

February 13, 2025

The Chicago White Sox have signed veteran outfielder Michael A. Taylor to a one-year, $1.95 million contract, adding a reliable defender to their outfield as they continue their rebuild. 

Taylor, 33, won a Gold Glove with the Kansas City Royals in 2021 and leads all major leaguers with 52 defensive runs saved since 2020. 

While he struggled at the plate last season with the Pittsburgh Pirates, hitting .193 with five home runs and a .543 OPS in 113 games, his defense remains among the best in the game. 

To make room on the 40-man roster, the White Sox placed right-hander Jesse Scholtens on the 60-day injured list as he recovers from Tommy John surgery.

Taylor provides the White Sox with a veteran option in center field, particularly if they decide to trade Luis Robert Jr. or manage his workload. 

General manager Chris Getz acknowledged there has been trade interest in Robert but said the team expects him to remain its Opening Day center fielder. “We have to find ways to keep him on the field,” Getz said. 

Taylor, who has played 921 of his 1,001 career games in center field, adds much-needed depth alongside Andrew Benintendi, Mike Tauchman, and Austin Slater. 

His presence could also give younger outfielders like Oscar Colás and Dominic Fletcher more time to develop.

The White Sox are also dealing with injuries to key pitchers as Spring Training begins. Left-hander Ky Bush will undergo Tommy John surgery, while right-hander Drew Thorpe, acquired in the Dylan Cease trade, is recovering from an elbow procedure and remains slightly behind schedule. 

The team outrighted reliever Steven Wilson to Triple-A Charlotte after he cleared waivers, keeping him as a non-roster invitee.

Photo Credit: Owen Ziliak/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK

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