The Los Angeles Angels have officially signed utility player Chris Taylor and optioned outfielder Kyren Paris to Triple-A, following a slump at the plate. This roster move was confirmed late Thursday, shortly before the Angels faced the New York Yankees. The change fills the Angels’ open 40-man spot after right-hander Shaun Anderson was designated for assignment.
Chris Taylor’s Career and Recent Performance
Chris Taylor, 34, is known for his versatility across the diamond and his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively. He played for the Los Angeles Dodgers for several years, maintaining respectable offensive numbers and demonstrating speed on the bases. His four-year, $60 million contract signed prior to the 2022 season reflected his value at that time. However, Taylor’s numbers have declined in recent seasons, leading to reduced playing time and his release from the Dodgers just over a week ago.
Despite the Angels acquiring Taylor, the Dodgers remain responsible for the majority of his $13 million salary this year and the $4 million buyout on his 2026 club option. This arrangement means the Angels will only pay prorated league minimum salary for Taylor’s time on their roster, deducted from the Dodgers’ remaining obligation.
Potential Role and Expectations for Taylor with the Angels
The Angels are likely hoping that consistent playing time will help Taylor regain his form. From 2017 to 2021, Taylor hit .265/.343/.461 with a 116 weighted runs created plus (wRC+) and stole 50 bases, playing every position except first base and catcher. Yet in recent years, his production has declined significantly, with wRC+ dropping to 90 after 2021, 74 last season, and just 23 through early 2025. His return to regular action could provide the boost needed to revive those earlier successes.
Kyren Paris’s Struggles Prompt Demotion
Kyren Paris, a young player who offers versatility similar to Taylor, has played second base, shortstop, center field, and left field during his three MLB seasons. Paris had a promising start to the 2025 season but has since fallen into a pronounced slump. Over 140 plate appearances, Paris struck out 59 times and posted a .190/.266/.381 slash line with six home runs. His offensive struggles have led the Angels to option him back to Triple-A, where he has limited experience with just 37 career games at that level.
Paris’s demotion reflects the Angels’ approach to player development, which has often involved rapid promotions of prospects. He debuted in the majors in 2023 before seeing any time in Triple-A, illustrating the club’s aggressive timeline for young players. The move to Triple-A aims to help Paris regain confidence and improve his batting performance.
Implications for the Angels’ Roster and Future Moves
This roster adjustment signals the Angels’ focus on strengthening the lineup by blending experience with youth. Taylor’s ability to cover multiple positions and possibly return to form could provide the team with valuable flexibility while Paris works to overcome his hitting difficulties. As the season progresses, the Angels will monitor both players’ performances closely, making further roster decisions based on their ability to contribute.
With the 2025 campaign underway, these changes highlight how the Angels are managing challenges within their lineup to remain competitive. Taylor’s signing and Paris’s option to Triple-A could influence the team’s depth and strategy moving forward, especially in resolving persistent offensive struggles.