New White Sox Michael A. Taylor, who can still catch it, going back to '23 approach to revive bat

Michael A. Taylor, the new center fielder for the White Sox, is known for his defensive capabilities with a Gold Glove and Fielding Bible accolades. However, his batting performance has been inconsistent, highlighted by a disappointing season with the Pirates where he batted just .193. Reflecting on his challenges, Taylor acknowledged a failed attempt to improve his hitting last season while expressing optimism about returning to form. The White Sox management appreciates his defensive versatility and leadership, especially given the team's younger players.

'I would say last year was a failed experiment,' Taylor told the Sun-Times Friday at Camelback Ranch. 'Coming off an above average year for me in 2023, I was looking to improve even more and I tried a few things that didn't really work out for me.'

'Hindsight is 20/20,' he said. 'I could have made those adjustments and maybe taken off but it didn't work out that way. That's part of the game.'

'Excited about Michael,' manager Will Venable said. 'The defensive versatility, really like the defender. We know he can hit lefties.'

Read at Chicago Sun-Times