Chris Taylor Landing Spots: Predicting 3 destinations for All-Star utilityman amid trade rumors

2024 was a mixed bag for veteran utilityman Chris Taylor. Despite posting one of the worst statistical seasons of his MLB career, the former All-Star was able to secure the second World Series title with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The 34-year-old struggled mightily at the plate in 2024, posting a .202 batting average with only four home runs and 23 RBIs in 87 games with the Dodgers. Yet, despite his poor performances, Taylor can play all over the field on defense which increases his value across the league.

Even though Taylor remains under contract for the 2025 season, with a $12,000,000 club option for 2026, there have been rumblings that the Dodgers could look to move him in a trade. Dodgers insider Sonja Chen has suggested that Taylor could be one of the next players on the move following the departure of Gavin Lux.

3 potential landing spots for Chris Taylor if he is dealt by the Dodgers

#1 - The Athletics

The Athletics have turned a page in the way that they are putting their roster together. The club not only handed out its most expensive contract extension in team history to Brent Rooker but also made its most expensive free agent signing by adding Luis Severino. The team's willingness to spend could make absorbing Taylor's contract easy to swallow.

Even though Chris Taylor struggled in 2024, he could be a valuable, versatile weapon for the Athletics for the 2025 season. His defensive flexibility could not only help the team this season but also the front office's ability to make additional moves. If they opt to trade away a player, Taylor could serve as an internal replacement for the club.

#2 - Seattle Mariners

The Seattle Mariners have reportedly been looking to improve their lineup, specifically their infield, all offseason. The M's have been relatively quiet all winter, and even though the free agent pool continues to thin, bringing in Taylor could be an alternative.

If he can bounce back to his All-Star form, he could be a bargain for the Mariners this season. That being said, if it doesn't work out, they can decline his club option for 2026.

#3 - The Los Angeles Angels

The Los Angeles Angels have been one of the most impressive teams so far this offseason. Despite struggling mightily in 2024, the front office has done an admirable job of bringing in several talented veterans this offseason, including Jorge Soler, Travis d'Arnaud, and Yusei Kikuchi.

Chris Taylor could be an intriguing target for the Angels thanks to his utilityman profile. He could allow manager Ron Washington some lineup flexibility in 2025, especially with Mike Trout potentially moving out of center field. Even if it is only for one season, Chris Taylor could be an interesting low-risk, high-reward addition for the Angels.