The Los Angeles Dodgers have designated veteran utilityman Chris Taylor for assignment, clearing a pathway for injured second baseman Tommy Edman’s return and rookie Hyeseong Kim to take on a larger role. The move comes just days after backup catcher Austin Barnes was also DFA’d to make room for top prospect Dalton Rushing.
Taylor, 34, had collected only 35 plate appearances this season with a .200 average and .457 OPS. However, he has been a stalwart in the Dodgers’ lineup since 2017, appearing in over 100 games per full season as both an infielder and outfielder. His performances in recent postseasons, including hitting four home runs in 11 playoff games in 2021, have left a lasting impact on the team’s culture.
In a statement, Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman acknowledged the tough decision, saying that the team felt it was necessary to make room for Edman and Kim while competing in a highly competitive division. The Dodgers currently lead the NL West, but are still within striking distance of their division rivals as they push towards the World Series title.
Source: https://nypost.com/2025/05/18/sports/ruthless-dodgers-cut-chris-taylor-after-dumping-austin-barnes