The Chicago White Sox are building something special, and it's time to take notice. Last season, they gave their young talents some significant playing time, setting the stage for a confident push this year.
Colson Montgomery and Shane Smith are two rookies who seamlessly transitioned from the minors, showing they belong in the big leagues. And then there's Grant Taylor, who deserves a spotlight of his own.
Despite a later call-up in June, Taylor made his presence felt as a high-leverage reliever, even closing out some games. ESPN analyst Kiley McDaniel has pegged him as a player to watch closely, and it’s easy to see why.
Taylor’s arm is electric, hitting speeds up to 101.5 mph. But it’s not just about the heat. His arsenal includes a cutter, slider, and curveball that keep hitters guessing and off-balance.
This season, expect Taylor to continue in a crucial role, bridging the gap to the ninth inning. With a year under his belt, he’s likely to be stretched out more, potentially closing more games and taking on increased responsibility.
McDaniel highlights Taylor’s potential, noting his near-100 mph velocity and a curveball that ranks among the best in the game. "He's going to be stretched out more this year and could be a lot of fun to watch," McDaniel observes.
If Taylor stays healthy, he could be the breakout star the White Sox need, just as they’re laying the foundation to move beyond their rebuilding phase. Keep an eye on this young flamethrower; he might just be the key to the White Sox’s rise.