MLB trade rumors: Each team’s best trade chip

Washington Nationals: Michael Taylor

Michael Taylor’s name has been on and off the trading block for the Nationals for the better part of three seasons. The toolsy centerfielder has never quite been able to establish himself as a full-time MLB starter. Two years ago, the Nationals made an all-out push to sign Yoenis Cespedes or Justin Upton to take the third spot in their outfield next to Jayson Werth and Bryce Harper. Last winter, they were in on Andrew McCutchen before sending a huge package to the White Sox for Adam Eaton.

All of that should have left Taylor feeling like the odd man out, but he has done well to keep his head up and produce when given the chance. After Eaton’s season-ending knee injury, Taylor has stepped into the starting lineup and is finally beginning to deliver on his potential. In 41 games, he is batting .266/.307/.438 with six doubles, two triples, four home runs, and three steals.

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Has Taylor played himself into the Nationals long-term plans? That’s still up in the air. The team’s top hitting prospect in the minor leagues is Victor Robles and their third-best prospect is another outfielder, Juan Soto. Both are a few years away, but figure to have more of a place in the future for the Nationals. If Washington is going to acquire a closer at the deadline — their biggest weakness by far — Taylor, along with a few more prospects could be a good starting point in talks.