Two-Time World Series Champion Departs Angels After Not Making Roster

The veteran utility man was unable to make the Angels' opening day roster despite a strong spring training performance.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 4:52pm

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The Los Angeles Angels have parted ways with veteran utility player Chris Taylor after he failed to make the team's opening day roster. Taylor, a two-time World Series champion with the Los Angeles Dodgers, had a strong spring training performance but was ultimately excluded from the Angels' 26-man roster. The 35-year-old can now seek opportunities with other teams after opting out of his minor league contract with the Angels.

Why it matters

The Angels are not expected to be a contending team this season, and the decision to release Taylor, who has a history of versatility and postseason success, is somewhat surprising. This move highlights the challenges faced by veteran players trying to latch on with new teams, even after productive spring training showings.

The details

Taylor, who spent the past 10 seasons with the Dodgers, was signed by the Angels to a minor league contract in the offseason. Despite posting a .388 on-base percentage and a .798 OPS in 52 plate appearances during spring training, the Angels ultimately decided not to include him on their opening day roster. The veteran utility player has now opted out of his deal with the Angels and will look to sign with another team.

  • The Angels signed Chris Taylor to a minor league contract in the offseason.
  • Taylor had a strong spring training performance, posting a .388 on-base percentage and a .798 OPS in 52 plate appearances.
  • On March 21, 2026, the Angels informed Taylor that he would not make the opening day roster.

The players

Chris Taylor

A veteran utility player who was a two-time World Series champion with the Los Angeles Dodgers before signing a minor league contract with the Angels in the offseason.

Los Angeles Angels

A Major League Baseball team based in Anaheim, California, that is not expected to be a contending team in the 2026 season.

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What they’re saying

“Chris Taylor opted out of his deal with the Angels and has been informed he will not make the club, source tells The Athletic.”

— Ken Rosenthal, Reporter

What’s next

Taylor will now look to sign with another team that can provide him with an opportunity to contribute at the major league level.

The takeaway

This move by the Angels highlights the challenges faced by veteran players trying to latch on with new teams, even after productive spring training performances. Taylor's release also raises questions about the Angels' roster-building strategy as they aim to improve upon a disappointing 2025 season.