In the wake of some dramatic roster shifts, the Los Angeles Dodgers have decided to part ways with Chris Taylor, following the recent designation of Austin Barnes for assignment. The Dodgers have sent shockwaves through their fanbase by cutting ties with two of their longest-tenured players in just a few short days.
Yet, it appears their bold strategy is already showing signs of success on the field. Rising star Dalton Rushing has made a splash with four hits in his first three major league appearances, and Tommy Edman has emerged as one of the team’s standout performers.
The Dodgers, however, are not completely free from their commitments to Barnes and Taylor. Taylor, who inked a four-year, $60 million extension in 2021, is still due a significant sum despite his departure.
According to the Associated Press, Taylor’s remaining payday amounts to $13,435,484. This includes $9,435,484 from the 2025 base salary and a $4 million buyout for the 2026 club option.
Still, this financial obligation is a mere footnote in the context of the Dodgers’ leading MLB payroll.
Given Taylor’s recent performance, it’s not hard to see why the Dodgers opted to create space on their roster despite the financial hit. The veteran player has struggled to find his form, slashing a meager .200/.200/.257 over 35 at-bats in 28 games this season.
Injuries have hampered his play, making it challenging for him to keep pace. With the decision to DFA Taylor, the Dodgers have made room for the red-hot rookie Hyeseong Kim, who boasts an impressive .452/.485/.581 line, ensuring his continued presence in the majors despite the return of Teoscar Hernández from the injured list.
Turning the page at the age of 35, Taylor leaves behind a legacy of clutch performances and two World Series titles since joining the Dodgers in 2016. While he will be missed for his All-Star caliber play, particularly memorable in the postseason, the team is clearly focused on fortifying their roster with younger, rising talent. This includes Edman, Rushing, Mookie Betts, Kiké Hernández, and Andy Pages, with Michael Conforto also in the mix.
The organization’s decision underscores a relentless pursuit of another championship, where financial flexibility takes a back seat to competitive edge. And as they aim to repeat as World Series champions, the Dodgers’ willingness to make tough roster decisions proves they are fully committed to fielding the best team possible, a luxury that many franchises around the league can only envy.
