Royals sign Michael A. Taylor to reported 1-year deal
The Kansas City Royals made an addition to their outfield Monday by signing outfielder Michael A. Taylor, the team announced.
Welcome to the #Royals, Michael Taylor! pic.twitter.com/lA0gEJ4cKy
— Kansas City Royals (@Royals) November 30, 2020
It's a one-year major-league contract worth $1.75 million, according to Tim Brown of Yahoo Sports. The deal also contains another $1 million worth of incentives.
Here’s the breakdown for Michael A. Taylor’s $1 million in incentives, per source: $250,000 each for 200 and 300 plate appearances; $100,000 each for 350, 400, 450, 500 and 550 plate appearances.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) November 30, 2020
Taylor had spent his entire career with the Washington Nationals. After being outrighted off the Nats' 40-man roster last month, Taylor elected free agency rather than accept a minor-league assignment.
The 29-year-old helped Washington win a World Series in 2019 as a part-time outfielder. His best season came in 2017 when he posted a .806 OPS with 19 homers, 53 RBIs, and 17 stolen bases while serving as the Nats' primary center fielder. Taylor only appeared in 38 games last year and slashed .196/.253/.424 with five homers.
In Kansas City, Taylor will look to revitalize his career by potentially playing all three outfield positions. He also adds more depth to a crowded Royals outfield that already includes Franchy Cordero, Bubba Starling, and versatile stars Whit Merrifield and Hunter Dozier, who can both play on the infield.
General manager Dayton Moore said Taylor will be given a chance to win the center field job in spring training, according to Jeffrey Flanagan of MLB.com.
Taylor represents the latest signing for the Royals, who have been busy over the last 12 hours. On Sunday night, they reportedly agreed to a two-year deal with free-agent lefty Mike Minor.
Kansas City designated left-hander Foster Griffin for assignment to open a 40-man roster spot for Taylor.