Chris Taylor is invaluable to Dodgers

When the Dodgers traded for Chris Taylor years back, I don’t think they expected to get anywhere near the production they’ve received from him. Since 2017, Taylor has 51 home runs, 194 RBI, 391 hits all while posting an OPS of above .800.

In addition to having a great bat, Taylor’s versatility in the field has been remarkable. Manager Dane Roberts called him “Invaluable” when speaking to the media on Sunday morning.

“He’s a pro,” he said. “He does everything the right way. Things that come out of his mouth are the right things. He’s all in. To play whatever position, to hit in the order, to come off the bench. Whatever I ask of him, he’s in for.”

Since coming to the Dodgers, Taylor has spent time at third base, shortstop, second base, left field, center field and right field. His ability to play any position asked of him allows Roberts to put him in the lineup whenever he chooses. It’s one thing to have that ability, but to do it at such a high and consistent level? It’s rare.

“Over the last few years he’s one of the top 20 players in WAR in all of baseball,” Roberts said. “I don’t think he gets the credit he deserves around the league. I think his peers and opponents understand it. I don’t think he’d have it any other way. He just puts his head down and performs.”

News and notes

• There’s no update on the status of Corey Seager or when we can see him. This will be his second straight missed game after he exited Friday’s contest with lower back discomfort. “It’s the same progression and treatment,” Roberts said. “No baseball activity. He feels a little better than he did two nights ago. It’s going to be a day-to-day thing. We’re not considering the IL right now. We’re going to give it a few days and reassess.”
• Walker Buehler will make his third start of the season this afternoon. He threw five innings in his last start in San Diego, but struggled with command. Buehler allowed three homers and only struck out three. Roberts said the best-case scenario for him today is six shutout innings, as he continues to build his arm up.
  “He’s very in tune with his delivery. It’s more staying in the strike zone and not getting rotational. Velocity should be 96 to 98 today. I expect his rhythm to be good and put us in a position to win the game.”