Dodgers: Constructing the Future Dodgers Lineup

2. Chris Taylor, Center Field

So we all know what Chris Taylor has been for the Dodgers this season. What’s the beauty of Chris Taylor’s magic? It’s that he’s only 26 and the Dodgers still have him under contract until 2022. The earliest Taylor is eligible for arbitration is 2019.

Assuming we’re talking about a lineup that is three year’s from now, this would put Taylor right on the cusp of 28 and in line for a breakout year. Taylor would slot in the second slot ahead of perhaps the Dodgers best pure hitter and will see a lot more pitches to hit, which will open up his power that we’ve already seen great promise from.

The issue with Taylor here is finding a position for him to play. For the sake of the best possible lineup regarding prospects/young core, we’re slotting him at center field. Now, this brings the question as to what will happen to Joc Pederson.

I’m a believer that Taylor will continue his positive contribution to the team, leaving Friedman and Zaidi no other choice than to move on from Pederson. If not for the reason that Taylor outproduces him, for the reason that the team has so many power hitting left-handed bats and they need some turnover in the lineup, and that’s what Taylor brings.

Taylor will fill in nicely between Verdugo, a fast left-hander, and our best pure hitter, next.