Why Grant Taylor Shouldn't Be LABELED as the White Sox Elite Closer Yet

Chicago White Sox fans buzz about Grant Taylor’s explosive spring training debut, but is he the team’s future elite closer—or something more? His triple-digit fastball and dominant performance have sparked comparisons to Mason Miller, yet manager Will Venable may see Taylor as a multi-inning, high-leverage weapon rather than a classic ninth-inning closer. Host Todd Welter breaks down Taylor’s strengths, ERA vs. FIP debate, and outlines why pumping the brakes on closer projections is wise. The episode examines the White Sox’s reluctance to broadcast spring training games, pulling back the curtain on TV production challenges and fan accessibility. Additional hot topics include prospects like Tanner McDougal, hype vs. reality in the rebuild, and lessons learned from Michael Kopech’s struggles. Can the White Sox maximize their pitching talent and keep fans engaged during another rough year? The new era starts now—don’t miss the debate on Taylor’s true potential. 00:00 Grant Taylor "Elite Closer" Debate Todd Welter analyzes Grant Taylor's potential, why he's not ready for the "elite closer" label, and discusses his spring dominance, bullpen role, and starter possibilities. 11:59 White Sox Spring Training Accessibility Todd Welter critiques the White Sox for not broadcasting more spring training games, details the missed hype around Murakami, and offers solutions to improve accessibility. 20:32 Mailbag & Fan Feedback Todd Welter tackles mailbag questions, talks fan optimism vs. realism, responds to stadium rumors, spring training content struggles, and Michael Kopech's developmental lessons. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: lockedonwhitesox.supercast.com   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account,