Tyrone Taylor Shines For Mets In Spring Debut

Nothing in the major leagues is a guarantee. The battle to land a roster spot always presents challenges, even if it seems locked down. In the case of Tyrone Taylor, a new setting means having to start strong to make an impression. On Sunday, he did just that, going 2-for-3 at the plate with a stolen base, two runs scored, and a nice defensive play in center field.

Tyrone Taylor tallied a single in his first #Mets spring at-bat.

He then stole a base and came home on a Ji-Man Choi double play ground out.

1-0 #Mets, end 1. pic.twitter.com/3pi0VNuyJE

— Metsmerized Online (@Metsmerized) February 25, 2024

Taylor was acquired along with Adrian Houser from the Milwaukee Brewers. At 30 years old, he is poised to serve as a right-handed option off the bench for the Mets, who currently feature only three permanent outfielders on their 40-man roster. Most known for his power-hitting against lefties and defensive prowess, Taylor has totaled 41 home runs in 331 career games.

Taylor brings a versatile skill set to the Mets, combining speed, power, and strong defense. Despite a high strikeout rate (23%) and low walk rate (5.5%), he consistently maintained a robust isolated power (ISO) since 2019. In 2023, he improved plate discipline, with a career-low groundball percentage (33.3%) and an increased line drive average (25.4%).

Known for successful base stealing, Taylor stole nine bases without being caught in 2023, adding a rare threat on the basepaths. With occasional power, evidenced by an average exit velocity of 87.4 MPH, Taylor’s well-rounded game and adaptability make him a valuable asset for the Mets, despite some limitations.

Notably, 13 of these homers were off left-handed pitchers, although his overall platoon splits throughout his career are not overly pronounced. Entering arbitration eligibility for the first time, Taylor stands as a potential right-handed counterpart to the left-handed DJ Stewart on the Mets’ bench.

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