Star Chicago White Sox reliever gets brutally honest on Game 5 challenge

Imagn Images

Star Chicago White Sox reliever gets brutally honest on Game 5 challenge

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Dan Fappiano | Last updated Oct 9, 2026 3:48 PM ET

Right-hander Grant Taylor has been a star out of the Chicago White Sox’s bullpen all season. But the Cleveland Guardians were able to figure him out in Game 4 of the American League Division Series.

Taylor entered the game after the Guardians knotted the score at four. He then allowed four hits, two walks and four runs scored without recording an out. The White Sox would go on to lose 9-5.

Heading into Game 4, Taylor hadn’t allowed an earned run in his previous three appearances during the postseason. In fact, he let up just five hits and no walks while striking out 11 through 7.2 innings. Thursday’s game told a different story though.

With the White Sox’s back against the wall, the franchise has no time to grovel. That includes Taylor, who remains ready for any situation he’s put in.

Chicago White Sox’s Grant Taylor not backing down

Sep 29, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Chicago White Sox pitcher Grant Taylor (31) reacts after the final out against the Houston Astros during game one of the Wildcard round for the 2026 MLB Playoffs at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

In terms of his Game 4 performance, Taylor credited the Guardians’ bats. He knows the two walks he gave up didn’t help. But Cleveland was ready for whatever the right-hander threw at them, via Cody Stavenhagen of the Athletic.

“They just had good at-bats,” Taylor said. “Made me come to them. Obviously two walks isn’t going to get the job done, and when I did come in the zone, they put the ball in play and good things happened for them.”

Game 4’s outing marked the third time Taylor pitched in the ALDS. However, he is feeling no limitations physically. His innings pitched didn’t affect his performance on Thursday.

“Body felt good,” he said. “Stuff felt good. Just didn’t execute.”

On that same note, Taylor feels ready to pitch if necessary in Game 5. It shouldn’t be considered out of the realm of possibilities. The righty was truly potent during the regular season with a 2.25 ERA and 106/30 K/BB ratio over 60 appearances. One bad appearance won’t have Chicago souring on him.

It’ll be all hands on deck with the White Sox’s season on the line. Taylor is willing to do whatever it takes to advance.

“I’m going to be available for anything,” Taylor said. “They want me to go nine, then go for it. I’m going to do everything in the next couple of days to be ready to go and put my body on the line for this team.”

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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