Analyzing the Mets’ external options at shortstop

Chris Taylor

Sep 16, 2014; Anaheim, CA, USA; Seattle Mariners shortstop Chris Taylor (1) is congratulated by third baseman

(15) after scoring a run against the Los Angeles Angels in the 5th inning during the game at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

As mentioned previously, Taylor, who will be 24 this coming season, took over at shortstop for Miller in late July and played there through the rest of the season. A former fifth round pick in 2012 out of the University of Virginia, Taylor is a player who hit better than expected in the minors (.320/.407/.465 in 258 games) and had fairly decent success in his short time in the big leagues (.260/.322/.351 in 47 games).

Where Taylor really shined, however, was on the defensive end, where he sported a 14.2 (!) UZR/150 this past season. Though this statistic is based off a fairly small sample size, it’s still a positive sign to see when assessing potential trade options.

I think it’s safe to say it would take more to obtain Taylor than Brad Miller in a trade. However, with the Mariners in win-now mode, they may be willing to deal the Virginia product if they believe it will help them compete for a playoff spot. With the Mariners just completing a deal for J.A. Happ a few days ago, it makes me wonder whether a Jon Niese for Taylor deal could have been possible. In any case, either of the two Mariners shortstops, in my opinion, would be worth obtaining for the upcoming season and beyond.