The Los Angeles Angels announced on Monday that they have signed veteran utility player Chris Taylor to a one-year contract worth $760,000, adding depth and experience to their roster. Taylor made his Angels debut the same night, starting in center field and batting seventh during a 5-1 loss to the New York Yankees at Angel Stadium.
To accommodate Taylor, the Angels optioned utility man Kyren Paris to Triple-A Salt Lake after Paris, despite a strong start to the season, encountered struggles since mid-April. Taylor, released by the Dodgers on May 18 after nine seasons, struggled at the plate during his first game with his new team, going 0-for-3 with two strikeouts.
Reasons Behind Chris Taylor’s Departure from the Dodgers
Chris Taylor’s exit from the Dodgers followed a difficult period at the plate, where he posted a batting average of .200 and an OPS of .457 across 28 games. These challenges led the Dodgers to make the tough decision to release the 33-year-old utility player, ending a lengthy and successful run with the organization.
Despite leaving the Dodgers, Taylor stayed in Los Angeles, signing with their crosstown rivals, the Angels, which keeps him close to the community and life he has built. His versatility, capable of playing second base, third base, shortstop, and all outfield positions, offers Angels manager Ron Washington valuable flexibility in constructing lineups as the team seeks to gain momentum.
Highlights of Chris Taylor’s Impactful Career with the Dodgers
Since joining the Dodgers in June 2016 via trade from the Mariners, Taylor became a key “superutility” figure starting in 2017. Over his tenure, he hit 78 home runs, stole 50 bases, and maintained an impressive .804 OPS with a 113 OPS+ from 2017 through 2021, including an All-Star selection in 2021.
Taylor played a significant role in the Dodgers’ two World Series championships in 2020 and 2024, participating in 80 playoff games. One of his standout moments came in 2017 when he earned the NLCS MVP alongside Trea Turner by batting .316 and hitting two home runs against the Chicago Cubs, helping the Dodgers reach the World Series for the first time since 1988.
Deeply connected to the Dodgers family, Taylor’s wife Mary shared a touching message on Instagram expressing pride for his nine-plus seasons with the team:
“Couldn’t be prouder of you Chris For the 9+ seasons you’ve spent with the Dodgers.”
—Mary, Wife of Chris Taylor
Chris Taylor himself expressed gratitude and reflected on his tenure with the Dodgers:
“I’m beyond grateful to have been a part of the Dodger family for the past 9 years,”
he wrote.
He also said,
“It was a hell of a run with plenty of peaks and valleys and I wouldn’t change a thing. I especially want to thank all of my coaches, teammates, and the Dodger fans. Playing for this team has been a dream come true and I have created friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.”
Looking ahead, Taylor concluded,
“Looking forward to starting a new chapter in red across town.”
Chris Taylor’s Contributions to Dodgers’ Postseason Resilience
Taylor’s postseason track record highlights his clutch performances during critical moments. His 2017 NLCS co-MVP award recognizes his vital role in helping the Dodgers reach the World Series, hitting two homers and maintaining a .316 average against the Cubs during the series.
He continued to be a key postseason performer with memorable highlights including the 2021 Wild Card game against the St. Louis Cardinals, where his walk-off home run secured the Dodgers’ advancement to the NLDS to face division rivals, the San Francisco Giants.
Throughout 80 playoff games, Taylor’s timely hitting and reliable defense across various positions strengthened the Dodgers’ efforts, contributing to their 2020 and 2024 World Series titles. His ability to excel under pressure made him a trusted and valuable member of the Dodgers’ roster over nearly a decade.
Off-field Impact and Community Involvement
Beyond his athletic contributions, Chris Taylor and his wife Mary made significant efforts off the field with the CT3 Foundation. They hosted the Polar Plunge event in 2024 and 2025, raising funds for causes like the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and the Friendship Foundation, showcasing their dedication to philanthropy within the community.
What the Angels Expect from Their New Utility Player
The Angels envision Taylor bringing veteran leadership and a winning mentality to their clubhouse as they navigate a challenging American League West division. With his championship experience and ability to cover multiple positions, Taylor offers the team a strategic asset, aiming to bolster their lineup and inject confidence amid stiff competition.
While the season presents hurdles, Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington can now rely on Taylor’s versatility and playoff-tested composure to contribute both on the field and within the team’s culture, potentially making a significant difference as the campaign unfolds.