The Los Angeles Dodgers have their work cut out for them this offseason. The team needs to retain talent in order to make another run at the World Series, but that task may just have been made more difficult. In addition to the potential departure of stars Max Scherzer, Clayton Kershaw, and Corey Seager, the Dodgers may also be at risk of losing Chris Taylor.
The star utility man turned down the qualifying offer from the Dodgers and intends to hit free agency, per MLB insider Jon Heyman. Taylor's qualifying offer was reportedly worth $18.4 million, but the 31-year-old elected to hit the open market rather than return on the one-year deal.
According to sources, Chris Taylor will decline the Dodgers $18.4M qualifying offer
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) November 15, 2021
Taylor will likely have a variety of suitors in free agency. Among them will surely be the Dodgers, who are widely expected to be at the forefront of the race. Considering he rejected the lucrative qualifying offer, Taylor is likely seeking a multi-year contract.
The Dodgers acquired Taylor in a trade with the Mariners in 2010. They sent 2010 first-round pick Zach Lee to Seattle in the swap. Across six seasons in LA, Taylor has slashed .264/.341/.458 with 79 home runs and 299 RBI. He won the World Series with the club in 2020 and was named the NLCS MVP. He played six different positions last year and his defensive versatility was invaluable for the team.
Last year, Taylor made his first All-Star appearance. He will be looking to build upon his successful campaign, whether it be back in Los Angeles or with a new club. Regardless of the cost, fans in Los Angeles will be hoping the team brings Taylor back.
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