Prior to the MLB lockout that began on Dec. 1, the Los Angeles Dodgers were able to come to an agreement with Chris Taylor on a new contact.
Taylor was reportedly willing to accept a lesser salary to remain with the Dodgers, but he was still able to secure a four-year deal worth $60 million with a team option that would take it to $73 million.
During the 2021 season, Taylor hit .254/.344/.438 with 25 doubles, 20 home runs and a 113 wRC+ in 148 games while seeing time at six different positions. He was also selected to his first All-Star team.
As for his new deal, Taylor can earn even more from his contract if he continues to be selected to the All-Star Game or ends up winning a Silver Slugger Award, among other possibilities, according to Associated Press:
Taylor will be paid $15 million in 2022 and ’23, then $13 million in ’24 and ’25. His club option for 2026 is for $12 million with a $4 million buyout.
His option price would increase by $3 million if traded before the end of the 2023 season, by $2 million if traded after the 2023 season and before the end of the 2024 season or by $1 million if traded after the 2024 season and before the start of the 2026 season. It also would increase by $1 million if he has 525 plate appearances in 2025 or is an All-Star or wins a Silver Slugger award that year.
He would receive a $2 million assignment bonus each time he is traded.
Although Taylor has only been selected to the All-Star game once in his career, he has remained incredibly consistent since his 2017 breakout.
In his career, the 31-year-old has hit .261/.337/.443 with 79 home runs, a 111 wRC+ and 14.5 WAR.
Neuse In Limbo After DFA to make room for Taylor
To make room on their 40-man roster for Taylor, the Dodgers designated Sheldon Neuse for assignment.
Under normal circumstances, Neuse would have clarity on his future within a week’s time. However, with MLB team owners imposing a lockout, Neuse will remain in DFA limbo until a new collective bargaining agreement is in place.
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