Dodgers Break Silence on Chris Taylor Release

Valentina Martinez | May 19, 2025

Mar 27, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Chris Taylor (3) reacts with teammates before the game against the Detroit Tigers at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images / Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Dodgers parted way with two longtime players in the same week. The Dodgers designated Austin Barnes for assignment Wednesday, and released Chris Taylor Sunday.

Read more: Dodgers Fans Reacts to Shocking Chris Taylor Roster Move

Both Barnes and Taylor were the Dodgers' longest-tenured position players. Taylor was in his tenth season with the Dodgers, after joining the team in 2016 via trade.

The Dodgers posted a tribute to thank the utility man for spending the last decade with the team.

Thank you Chris for bringing two championships to LA, all the unforgettable moments on and off the field and everything you've done for the city of Los Angeles. pic.twitter.com/64yGt7WwDC

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) May 18, 2025

Thank you, CT3. pic.twitter.com/WhX5fr4t53

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) May 18, 2025

Taylor is a two-time World Series champion and earned his first All-Star appearance in 2021 with the Dodgers. That season, the utility man hit .254 with 20 home runs and 73 runs batted in.

Taylor's production has since declined, as well as his playing time. He received 35 plate appearances, going 7-for-35 with 13 strikeouts this season. He appeared in 28 of the Dodgers’ 46 games in 2025.

The longtime Dodger was in the final year of a four-year, $60 million deal and had $16 million guaranteed left on his deal entering the season. The release of Taylor comes just days after the Dodgers designated longtime catcher Austin Barnes for assignment.

The message is clear: The Dodgers are serious about winning another ring in 2025.

Read more: Dodgers DFA $60 Million All-Star in Shocking Move

For more Dodgers news, head over to Dodgers on SI.