Chris Taylor Retires from Baseball After a Decade-Long MLB Career
Chris Taylor, the Los Angeles Dodgers legend, has officially announced his retirement from professional baseball. The 35-year-old player, who spent 12 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB), concluded his career with two World Series titles, one in 2020 and another in 2024. His decision to step away from the game was confirmed by MLB on social media late on Friday evening.
Taylor’s final stop before retiring was with the Salt Lake Bees, the Triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels. This marked the end of a journey that began in 2012 when he was selected by the Seattle Mariners in the fifth round of the MLB Draft, with the 161st overall pick.
After making his major-league debut with the Mariners in 2014, Taylor spent two seasons in Seattle before being traded to the Dodgers in June 2016. The trade involved pitcher Zach Lee, and it proved to be a turning point in Taylor’s career. He quickly became an essential part of the Dodgers’ roster, playing a key role in their success over the next decade.
During his time with the Dodgers, Taylor earned several accolades. In 2017, he was named NLCS MVP after leading the team to a victory in the National League Championship Series. That same year, he also hit a memorable walk-off home run during the 2021 National League wild-card game against the St. Louis Cardinals. Additionally, he was selected to the NL All-Star team in 2021.
His standout season came in 2017, when he batted .288/.354/.496 with 21 home runs, 34 doubles, 72 RBI, and 17 stolen bases. This performance solidified his reputation as one of the most versatile players in the league.
After winning his second World Series in 2025, Taylor was released by the Dodgers early in the 2025 season. However, he didn’t stay away from the game for long. He signed with the Los Angeles Angels, the Dodgers’ crosstown rivals, and played 30 games last season, finishing with a .179/.278/.321 slash average.
Throughout his career, Taylor accumulated impressive statistics. He finished with 91 stolen bases, 110 home runs, 200 doubles, and 443 RBI. His batting average was .248, and he posted a .746 OPS, reflecting his consistent contributions on the field.
Key Highlights of Chris Taylor’s Career
- World Series Titles: Two championships with the Dodgers in 2020 and 2024
- NLCS MVP: Awarded in 2017 for his performance in the National League Championship Series
- All-Star Selection: Named to the NL All-Star team in 2021
- Walk-Off Home Run: One of the most memorable moments in his career during the 2021 wild-card game
- Versatile Player: Known for his ability to play multiple positions, making him a valuable asset to any team
Taylor’s career is a testament to his dedication, skill, and resilience. From his early days with the Mariners to his legendary status with the Dodgers, he left a lasting impact on the game. As he steps away from the field, fans and teammates alike will remember his contributions and the moments that defined his career.
