Chris Taylor is staying in Southern California after signing a one-year, $760,000 deal with the Los Angeles Angels on Monday, just a week after being released by the Dodgers.
The 34-year-old utility veteran made his Angels debut that night in Anaheim, starting in center field and batting eighth against the New York Yankees. He struck out in his first plate appearance with his new team.
Before the game, Taylor acknowledged he has something to prove. “I haven’t played to my potential the last couple seasons,” he said. “I want to change that.”
Angels manager Ron Washington welcomed the addition, noting Taylor’s veteran presence. “He brings experience. He’s been through the battles. That’s something our younger guys can learn from. We’ve seen what he can do, and we’re going to give him a shot to show what he still has left.”
Taylor played 28 games for the Dodgers this season, his 10th with the club, but had limited opportunities at the plate — recording just 35 at-bats, seven hits (including two doubles), and two RBIs before his release on May 18.
Originally drafted by the Mariners in the fifth round in 2012, Taylor won World Series titles with the Dodgers in 2020 and 2024 and was named an All-Star in 2021. He also shared NLCS MVP honors with Justin Turner in 2017.
Over his 12-year MLB career, Taylor owns a .250 batting average with 108 home runs and 433 RBIs.
To make room for Taylor on the roster, the Angels optioned 23-year-old infielder/outfielder Kyren Paris to Triple-A Salt Lake on Sunday.
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