Dodgers Release Chris Taylor, Activate Tommy Edman

The Los Angeles Dodgers announced on Sunday the release of veteran utility player Chris Taylor. Simultaneously, they activated infielder/outfielder Tommy Edman from the 10-day injured list.

Taylor, who has been with the Dodgers since 2016, will receive $13.4 million, representing the final year of his $60 million, four-year contract. He is now eligible to become a free agent.

In a related move, the Dodgers also released backup catcher Austin Barnes four days prior, clearing the path for Dalton Rushing.

Andrew Friedman, the Dodgers’ president of baseball operations, acknowledged the emotional impact of these decisions.

Sentiments from Dodgers President

Friedman stated, “This week has been very emotional for all of us. Saying goodbye to C.T. and Barnesy, who have played pivotal roles in some of our most memorable moments, was incredibly difficult.”

The decision to release Taylor suggests that rookie second baseman Hyeseong Kim from South Korea will likely remain in MLB, despite Teoscar Hernandez’s imminent return from the injured list.

In the current season, Taylor participated in 35 games, accumulating 28 plate appearances with seven hits and 13 strikeouts, but no walks.

Friedman on Taylor’s Commitment

Friedman added, “He embodies toughness more than anyone I’ve encountered. His dedication was unwavering, consistently giving his all for the team.”

Taylor’s decline began in the 2024 season, during which he recorded a batting average of .202/.298/.300 across 87 games. The struggles continued into the 2025 season.

Key moments in Taylor’s career include a walk-off home run in the 2021 NL Wild Card Game, a three-home run performance in the NLCS, and a home run to initiate Game 1 of the 2017 World Series.

Taylor shared the 2017 National League Championship Series MVP award with Justin Turner.