Angels Sign Chris Taylor Amid MLB Standings Shift

ANAHEIM, California — The Los Angeles Angels signed veteran super-utility player Chris Taylor to a major league deal on Monday, announcing that he will start in center field batting eighth in the lineup.

Taylor, 34, was released by the Los Angeles Dodgers on May 18 after spending over nine years with the team. The move comes as the Angels seek to fill a gap in center field that has been problematic since earlier in the season.

Angels manager Ron Washington expressed confidence in Taylor, saying, “He brings experience, which is something we need in there. He’s a good piece for those young guys to talk to about how to handle the grind. We’re going to give him an opportunity to see what he’s got left.”

To make room for Taylor, the Angels optioned young outfielder Kyren Paris back to Triple-A. Paris had been touted as one of the breakout stars early this season, but his performance declined sharply. He began with a 1.514 OPS, five home runs, and four stolen bases in his first 12 games, but slumped to a .116 batting average across 31 games since then.

Washington clarified that the decision to option Paris was not solely based on his recent struggles. “He needs to play. He’s young. He needs to go get at-bats. I was very impressed with the way he handled himself when things weren’t going the way he wanted them to go,” he stated.

During his time with the Dodgers, Taylor accumulated a .256 batting average alongside versatility, playing six different positions and contributing significantly in postseason games. However, he suffered through a difficult 2024 season, batting just .202 before falling out of favor this season.

With the Angels, Taylor will not only safeguard the center field spot but also has the potential to fill in at second base or third base if needed. Washington emphasized the adaptability Taylor brings, stating, “[He] is going to play center field, he’s going to play the infield, he’s going to do everything.”