The Los Angeles Dodgers shook up their roster with a series of impactful transactions ahead of Sunday’s series finale against the Los Angeles Angels at Dodger Stadium.
The most notable move was the release of
utilityman Chris Taylor, a longtime contributor to the team, in a decision that caught many by surprise. Along with Taylor’s release, the Dodgers activated Tommy Edman from the injured list. The team also placed reliever Kirby Yates on the 15-day injured list due to a right hamstring strain and selected the contract of Lou Trivino to bolster the bullpen.
These moves follow the recent release of veteran catcher Austin Barnes, signaling a clear shift in focus for the defending champions. The Dodgers are prioritizing performance over loyalty as they look to maintain their status as World Series contenders. While saying goodbye to clubhouse veterans like Taylor and Barnes is emotional, the club is clearly committed to winning at all costs.
Chris Taylor's Struggles
Taylor, who has been with the Dodgers since 2016 and played a key role in their championship run, was hitting just .200/.200/.257 with two RBIs and a .457 OPS across 28 games this season. His offensive struggles ultimately led to the decision to part ways.
The Dodgers paid tribute to Taylor with a farewell
video, underscoring his significance to the franchise during his tenure.
Yates Hits IL, Trivino Called Up
Kirby Yates exited Saturday’s 11-9 loss to the Angels in the seventh inning after just 23 pitches, citing tightness in his right hamstring. Manager Dave Roberts indicated postgame that a trip to the injured list was likely, and that was confirmed Sunday.
Yates’ injury comes at a tough time for the Dodgers' bullpen, which currently leads the league in innings pitched—a sign of how heavily they’ve been relied on early in the season.
To fill the gap, the Dodgers called up Lou Trivino, a veteran right-handed reliever, hoping he can provide stability in the late innings.
Edman Returns to the Lineup
On a more positive note,
Tommy Edman returns to action after recovering from an ankle injury that took longer than initially anticipated. He was inserted into Sunday’s lineup as the starting center fielder, adding a much-needed spark to both the defense and the batting order.
Edman’s return is a welcome boost for the Dodgers, as they look to secure a series split against their crosstown rivals.
