Dodgers: Chris Taylor Not Starting Tonight But Should Be Back in on Saturday
The Dodgers have been without Chris Taylor for almost 2 full weeks now. Aside from a pinch-ht appearance in Thursday’s extra-innings game, CT has not appeared in a game since September 23rd against the Padres.
That was the game that Taylor hit the outfield wall making a catch to take away a hit. It also apparently aggravated the Dodgers outfielder’s neck issue which had recently flared up. But instead of sending him to the injured list, LA tried to get him ready to go.
Taylor is once again not in the Dodgers starting lineup on Friday night in Arizona. He will be available off of the bench, and Dave Roberts said that he could be used in any capacity. We would assume that means they think he is healthy enough to play.
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Roberts also said that the plan was to have Taylor starting in centerfield for the Dodgers on Saturday. That would be his first start since aggravating his neck against the Padres. Doc also noted that if he was not able to go, they would adjust accordingly.
The Dodgers have gone with Gavin Lux in center the last few games with Cody Bellinger on the injured list. They have also used Mookie Betts out there, though getting AJ Pollock back likely means that Lux will see more time there. That’s of course if CT cannot go.
CT3 reminding us all how much he’s been missed as those back to back catches saved the Dodgers from going into xtras and then who knows? No one else but Mookie could have pulled off those catches. Now with CT3, Lux and Pollack platooning in Lft. and C, the word Bellinger should not even be mentioned again until he is traded this winter. The $ would be better spent in guaranteeing that Scherzer, Seager, Pollack,Taylor, and YES…Tio Albert all wear Dodger Blue in 2022.