Nelly Taylor is not taking anything for granted as his stock continues to rise
Over the next few weeks, the best prospects in baseball will take center stage with the Spring Breakout games. For the Red Sox fans, that means they will see Marcelo Mayer, Kristian Campbell, Franklin Arias, and Yoeilin Cespedes against other top prospects in the game. They will also get to watch Nelly Taylor, whose stock has skyrocketed over the last year.
During the 2024 campaign, the Florida native split time between Salem and Greenville. He thrived against more advanced competition in High-A with a .290 batting average in 10 games. The 22-year-old also flexed his power with five extra-base hits. While Taylor has started to create more buzz with his play, he is not taking his success for granted.
"It means so much to me to have been chosen for such a great opportunity," Taylor told Beyond The Monster." Being able to play amongst so many talented players and have the chance to have our names in the spotlight. I am very excited to be a part of something like this."
Due to his success, Taylor has arrived at camp with different expectations. He has more confidence than ever before, knowing that his hard work is paying off.
"It has been great knowing I had a great first year in pro ball and coming back from the offseason knowing I put in the work," said Taylor. "I would say that has helped me come Into this year more confident but also with a chip on my shoulder."
While Taylor made headlines with his bat last summer, he is a tremendous defender. That aspect of his game earned Taylor some hardware at the end of the 2024 campaign. He was named the organization's 2024 Minor League Defensive Player of the Year. With Taylor in the outfield, it was hard for batters to get on base.
As Taylor prepares to shine on one of the game's biggest stages, his family will also be in attendance.
“ I am looking forward to being able to showcase my abilities and have my family there watching,” said Taylor. “ My family only lives two hours away in Port Charlotte and will be in attendance, so that will be exciting. “
Taylor and the Red Sox’s top prospect will head to Port Charlotte on Thursday to take on the best prospects in the Rays system. While the stakes will be higher, Taylor’s approach will remain the same.
“Every day, I go to the field with the purpose, but not only that, when I leave the field, I must continue to take care of my mind, body, and soul,” said Taylor. “So that I get the most out of myself when it comes to performance at the highest levels.”
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