It was a perfect day, with the Dodgers celebrating Jackie Robinson‘s legacy. What made it even more special? A 6-2 feat against the Colorado Rockies that ended the day on a high note. And who was the driving force behind it? Imagine a Swiss Army knife in your baseball toolkit: able to unlock any defensive challenge and deliver a timely hit when needed most. Well, the Los Angeles Dodgers have someone like that in their corner. Though manager Dave Roberts knows it all too well, he’s also not wearing rose-colored glasses.

They are World Champions, a lineup with a $700M player, but it’s the entire bullpen that has made the Dodgers contenders once again. And Roberts believes this more than anyone, counting on each player in the bullpen. After their recent struggle, they needed to regain their edge. And the credit for bringing back that edge goes to Chris Taylor. He shone the brightest against the Rockies, hoping to spark an early lead, and managed to push a run across despite grounding into a double play, putting the Dodgers on the scoreboard. And given how Roberts spoke about the 34-year-old, it didn’t seem like the first time CT3 lived up to the expectations.

After taking control of the game early, his offensive efforts continued. He recorded his first RBI of the season with a well-placed single in the third inning, as the Dodgers sought to widen their lead. While addressing the media post-game, Roberts gave Taylor’s performance high marks: “C.T. is a guy that’s gotten a lot of big hits for us throughout his career with us. You can always kind of count on him when you put him in the lineup. He performed tonight for us.” However, that high praise was accompanied by one big complaint.

Though Taylor had a stellar performance, Roberts had higher expectations for him, especially in one particular area: Consistency. “I want to get him at-bats. Like most guys early on, he’s trying to find his swing. Sometimes you’ve just got to move guys around the diamond to get them in the lineup, and Chris is completely fine with that,” he added.

But that doesn’t mean Taylor lacks consistency at all. “I see a consistent mind, as we have always seen. Preparedness, openness to do whatever we ask,” added Roberts. This means, CT3 is indeed putting in the efforts to improve his swing mechanics after posting the worst season of his craeer last year.

Taylor’s work towards improving his offensive game was well demonstrated in Tuesday’s game. The highlight of the game came in the top of the third inning while he was playing center field. Ezequiel Tovar struck a ball that seemed headed for extra bases, possibly bringing in the tying run as the Rockies were poised to tie and the score was still tight. But Taylor made an amazing diving catch, depriving Tovar of what would have been a pivotal hit with his great range and agility.

Although Taylor’s efforts on Jackie Robinson Day were commendable, they also highlight the larger discussion about his changing role with the Dodgers.

Chris Taylor’s role and future with the Dodgers

Dodgers utility ace Taylor finds himself at the crossroads in his final guaranteed season—a $60 million chapter. Despite his impressive performance, there has been one thing on which you might also agree: a drop in offensive output, which has lessened his importance and made his future with the team uncertain.

When asked about Taylor’s future, manager Roberts has said, “I don’t know right now,” expressing uncertainty regarding his position in the team. However, Roberts knows Taylor’s versatility, noting that he can play several positions, including third base, center field, left field, and second base. Roberts referred to Taylor’s adaptability as his “superpower,” highlighting its value to the team. Spending 10 years in MLB is no small feat; it requires hard work, consistency, patience, and continuous improvement.

CT3 is about to reach a career milestone—ten years in the Major League. After more than five seasons with the Dodgers, Taylor should qualify for “10-and-5” privileges. This position would grant him a full no-trade clause, preventing him from being traded without his consent. This milestone reflects his passion for the game and the squad’s trust in him, demonstrating his longevity and allegiance to the team. ​​

Taylor’s current situation is intriguing in light of this development. His upcoming 10-and-5 rights could alter the Dodgers’ roster choices as he enters the final year of his guaranteed contract. Despite his inconsistent play, he remains respected within the team.  Achieving this threshold not only secures his spot but also underscores his value to the club.

What do you think? Will he choose to stay with the Dodgers, or will he seek new challenges elsewhere?