Following a challenging 2025 season marred by injuries, veteran baseball player Chris Taylor has reportedly inked a new deal with the Los Angeles Angels. This move offers the experienced infielder and outfielder a fresh opportunity to contend for a roster spot during the upcoming spring training, adding depth and versatility to the Angels' lineup. Taylor's return highlights a continued belief in his potential despite recent setbacks, particularly his previous successes with the Dodgers.
Angels Secure Chris Taylor's Return Amidst Recovery Hopes
In a recent development confirmed by Jon Heyman of the New York Post on Thursday night, the Los Angeles Angels have reportedly reached an agreement to re-sign Chris Taylor. Taylor, a seasoned player known for his contributions to the Dodgers' World Series campaigns in 2020 and 2024, is set to rejoin the Angels following a 2025 season cut short by injury. The 35-year-old, with 12 major league seasons under his belt, experienced a career-low performance last year, slashing .179/.278/.321 across just 30 games for the Angels after being designated for assignment by the Dodgers mid-season.
Taylor's struggles began in June when he suffered a hand fracture after being hit by a pitch, sidelining him for a month. Upon his return in July, he played only five additional games before re-fracturing the same hand during a sliding catch, effectively ending his season. Originally a shortstop within the Seattle Mariners organization, Taylor developed into a proficient defender capable of playing across the infield and outfield during his tenure with the Dodgers, starting in 2017. That pivotal year saw him achieve a personal best of 21 home runs, playing a crucial role in the Dodgers' journey to the World Series, their first since 1988.
His career peaked with an All-Star selection in 2021, gradually transitioning more permanently to an outfield role for Los Angeles. However, by 2024, increased competition and a dip in offensive production relegated him to the Dodgers' bench, culminating in his designation for assignment last May. With this new signing, Taylor is now poised to compete for a utility role during the Angels' spring training, aiming to prove his health and regain his form.
This signing underscores the Angels' commitment to bolstering their roster with experienced talent, especially those with a track record of postseason success. For Taylor, it represents a chance at redemption and an opportunity to contribute significantly to a team hoping to make an impact in the upcoming season. His versatility on defense and potential for power at the plate could provide valuable assets, assuming he can overcome the injury woes that plagued his previous year.