The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a significant roster move, releasing veteran utility player Chris Taylor on Sunday and activating infielder/outfielder Tommy Edman from the 10-day injured list.
Taylor, who has been with the Dodgers since 2016, will receive $13.4 million for the final year of his $60 million four-year contract and is now a free agent. His departure marks the end of a memorable tenure in Los Angeles, where he contributed to several key moments in the team’s recent success.
In a separate move, the Dodgers also parted ways with long-time backup catcher Austin Barnes just days ago to make room for prospect Dalton Rushing.
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman expressed how difficult the week has been for the organisation. “This week has been extremely emotional for all of us,” Friedman stated. “Some of our most memorable occasions have involved C.T. and Barnesy. Letting them go was incredibly difficult.”
The decision to release Taylor also suggests that rookie second baseman Hyeseong Kim, who had been performing well, is likely to stay with the team. This move comes despite the impending activation of outfielder Teoscar Hernandez from the injured list.
Taylor’s performance had significantly declined in recent seasons. In 2024, he struggled with a .202 batting average, .298 on-base percentage, and .300 slugging percentage over 87 games. His struggles have continued into the 2025 season, where he’s managed only seven hits in 35 games and has yet to draw a walk in 28 plate appearances.
Friedman, who praised Taylor’s character and work ethic, added, “He’s one of the toughest guys I’ve ever been around. He worked hard every day and gave everything to this team.”
Highlights of Taylor’s career include a home run in Game 1 of the 2017 World Series, a famous three-homer performance in the 2021 NLCS, and a spectacular walk-off home drive in the 2021 NL Wild Card Game. He was also named co-MVP of the 2017 NLCS alongside teammate Justin Turner.
The Dodgers now move forward with a mix of emerging talent and veteran leadership while reflecting on the contributions of Taylor and other key figures in their recent successes.