On February 13, Chris Taylor agreed to a minor league contract with the Los Angeles Angels, including an invitation to spring training, according to Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com. Taylor officially reported to the Angels’ camp that morning. This move follows reports from February 12 indicating the Angels’ intent to bring back the versatile player, though it was initially unclear if the deal was major league or minor league in nature, with the latter option seeming more probable. Taylor’s representation is handled by Meister Sports Management.
Performance and Injury History with the Angels
Taylor ended the 2025 season playing for the Angels in Orange County after signing a major league deal post-release by the Dodgers in May. He appeared in 30 games for Los Angeles, covering all three outfield positions as well as second and third base. Despite his defensive adaptability, Taylor struggled offensively, recording a .179 batting average with 29 strikeouts over 90 plate appearances. Early into the season, he suffered a broken left hand that placed him on the injured list. A brief comeback in July was unsuccessful, leading to minimal play until September.
Declining Offensive Production and Strikeout Rates
Once an All-Star, Taylor’s offensive numbers have steadily declined across the last two seasons. He posted a combined batting line of .186/.256/.301 over 125 plate appearances with the Angels and Dodgers. His bat speed and power metrics have notably dropped, while his strikeout rate has remained high, reaching 32%. Over 371 plate appearances in that span, Taylor managed just six home runs and a .196/.284/.301 slash line, highlighting ongoing struggles at the plate.
Role on the Team and Competition for Playing Time
Taylor is expected to vie for a bench role on the Angels roster. Known for his above-average speed and defensive versatility, he can cover every position except catcher and shortstop. The Angels face an open contest at second base, with candidates Christian Moore, Vaughn Grissom, Oswald Peraza, and non-roster invitee Nick Madrigal competing for the job. Third base is currently held by Yoán Moncada, though his durability remains uncertain. Meanwhile, the outfield is being assembled with Jo Adell, Josh Lowe, and at least one of Mike Trout or Jorge Soler, with the other likely serving as designated hitter.
Contract Details and Future Prospects
As a player with six years of major league service who finished the previous season on the Angels’ MLB roster, Taylor entered free agency under Article XX(b). Should his contract remain a minor league deal, he will have three automatic opt-out dates under the collective bargaining agreement: five days before Opening Day, May 1, and June 1. This arrangement offers flexibility for both Taylor and the Angels as the spring progresses.
Chris Taylor is here at #Angels camp. It’s a Minor League deal.
— Rhett Bollinger (@RhettBollinger) February 13, 2026
Chris Taylor agrees to Angels deal
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 13, 2026
