Michael A. Taylor is joining the Minnesota Twins coaching staff.
The Minnesota Twins are turning to a familiar face as they continue preparations for the 2026 MLB season. Former Twins outfielder Michael A. Taylor, who announced his retirement at the end of last year, has been hired by the organization as an outfield instructor. As Bobby Nightengale Jr. of The Minnesota Star Tribune reported, “Former Twins outfielder Michael A. Taylor, who announced his retirement at the end of last season, will join the organization as an outfield instructor.”
The 34-year-old enjoyed 12 seasons in MLB defined by elite defense, speed and timely contributions at the plate. Drafted by the Washington Nationals in the 2009 MLB Draft, he debuted in 2014 and spent seven seasons in Washington, where he became a key part of their outfield and contributed to the franchise’s 2019 World Series championship. He later played for the Kansas City Royals, Pittsburgh Pirates and Chicago White Sox, but his most productive offensive season came in Minnesota.
The Twins acquired Taylor from Kansas City before the 2023 campaign to provide depth behind center fielder Byron Buxton. In 129 games that year, Taylor hit a career-high 21 home runs, drove in 51 runs and stole 13 bases. His defense in center field stabilized the roster during a season when injuries forced the club to shuffle its lineup. That performance cemented his reputation as a versatile veteran who could contribute both with the glove and the bat.
Taylor’s career totals include a .232 batting average, 109 home runs, 388 RBIs and 128 stolen bases. He won a Gold Glove Award in 2021 with the Royals and finished as a finalist multiple times, underscoring his reputation as one of the premier defensive outfielders of his era.
By joining the Twins’ coaching staff, Taylor will now pass on his expertise to the next generation. His role as an outfield instructor will include working with both major-league and minor-league players during spring training and throughout the season. For a club that has long emphasized athleticism and defense, Taylor’s presence offers valuable insight into positioning, reads off the bat and the nuances of playing center field at the highest level.
The Twins enter 2026 looking to remain competitive with a retooled 40-man roster, and adding Taylor to the coaching staff reflects their commitment to player development. His transition from player to instructor ensures that his defensive knowledge and leadership will continue to benefit the organization well beyond his playing days.