The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially released outfielder Chris Taylor to make room for Tommy Edman, who has been activated from the 10-day injured list following an ankle injury. Edman’s return comes after he missed just over two weeks, but the significant news lies in the conclusion of Taylor’s nine-year tenure with the Dodgers.
Originally reported by The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya, Taylor’s designation for assignment transitioned to an outright release, as the Dodgers opted for a quicker resolution instead of leaving him in DFA limbo. With no other teams likely to claim him off waivers, the decision was made to part ways without further delay.
Taylor joined the Dodgers in June 2016 as part of a trade that sent pitcher Zach Lee to the Mariners. Initially, he was a versatile utility player, but his breakout season came in 2017 when he batted .288 with 21 home runs and earned NLCS MVP honors while leading the Dodgers to the World Series. He consistently delivered strong performances through the 2021 season, culminating in a four-year, $60 million contract.
However, after signing the long-term deal, Taylor’s production declined significantly, hitting just .222 over 1119 plate appearances since the start of the 2022 season and becoming a lesser-used player in a crowded Dodgers lineup this year.
Despite his recent struggles, Taylor has been an important contributor to the Dodgers’ success over the past decade. He played all over the diamond and became a prime example of the team’s ability to enhance the performance of players who were previously overlooked. His career highlights include two World Series rings and an impressive postseason batting line.
Taylor’s release coincided with Edman reclaiming a similar multifaceted role, while the Dodgers have reinforced their roster with other versatile players such as Enrique Hernandez and Miguel Rojas. The organization will continue to owe Taylor a significant portion of his contract, amounting to approximately $9.55 million for 2025 plus a $4 million buyout for his 2026 option. Should he sign with another team, that club will only pay him the prorated MLB minimum salary during his time on the active roster.
This move marks a new chapter for the Dodgers as they adapt their roster and look to maintain their competitive edge moving forward. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see where Taylor may land next and if he can still find success in the league after his time in Los Angeles.