Taylor patient at the plate as he returns to reserve role

Michael A. Taylor got the start in the leadoff spot in Saturday's first game of a day/night doubleheader as the Nationals downed the Marlins 6-4.

Taylor had struggled at times in the leadoff spot prior to Ben Revere's return to the lineup last weekend.

But on Saturday, Taylor once again displayed what he can do on offense and defense, going 2-for-3 with a double and two walks.

He stole two bases and made an outstanding catch of a fly ball off the bat of the Marlins catcher Jeff Mathis that was tailing away from him toward Bryce Harper in right field.

"Michael Taylor, he's a talent, big time," said manager Dusty Baker after the win. "That's why held on to him because we know the potential that he has and how he can do more ways to win a game rather than just hitting. He made some fine defensive plays out there on a wet track, stole some bases. This is what we had hoped to see from Michael. He had a good game today."

Stephen Strasburg earned his sixth win Saturday, and although he didn't see Taylor bat much during the game, the right-hander still knows how much potential his young teammate offers.

"I already knew he was versatile, so honestly I don't really remember what was going on, (so) I'll take your word for it though," Strasburg smiled.

"He's a great player. He's got one of the most accurate outfield arms that I've seen. He's got some power and he's got some speed on the bases, too. He's young and he's kind of figuring things out still. I think the sky's the limit for him."

Taylor has adjusted to this new role off the bench, which actually what he was supposed to do coming out of spring training. Ironically, by returning to his original responsibility, he has realized how important patience will be.

"For me, I don't want to be overly aggressive coming off the bench," Taylor said. "I think that's easy to do in a situation like that when you're not getting a ton of at-bats. I wanted to go up there and just be patient and try to wait for my pitch."

But there has been no revelation during these times when Taylor prepares for games as a bench player, waiting for his shot to start again.

"It's been productive," Taylor said. "My routine hasn't changed. I come in every day and do my work in the cage and prepare for the game. I feel good right now."