Dodgers avoid arbitration with Chris Taylor, who inks 2-year contract extension

While we’re all still (im)patiently waiting for the Mookie Betts–David Price deal to become official, the Dodgers have locked up another of their arbitration-eligible players.

The Dodgers have agreed to a two-year contract extension with IF/OF Chris Taylor, avoiding arbitration.

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) February 7, 2020

On the heels of extending Max Muncy yesterday, the Dodgers extended Chris Taylor this afternoon. His deal will be for $13.4 million over the next two years ($5.6 million in 2020, $7.8 million in 2021) — his final two of arbitration. He’ll hit the free-agent market following his age-30 season. Taylor was set to go to arbitration after he filed at $5.8 million and the Dodgers countered at $5.25 million. Agreeing to this instead feels like a no-brainer for both parties.

Taylor got off to a slow start last season, but still managed to hit .262/.333/.462 with a 107 wRC+ and a 1.7 WAR. His versatility has always been his most valuable trait, and it’s one that the Dodgers covet.

——

With this deal and the impending acquisition of Luis Rengifo, Enrique Hernandez‘s days in Los Angeles could be numbered. He’s going into his final year of team control, so don’t be surprised if this is his final season with LA. I’m not trying to be a downer, I just want to prepare you for the possibility.

Anyway, Pedro Baez is now the lone remaining unsettled arbitration-eligible Dodger, because of course he is. Also, Joc Pederson lost his arbitration hearing from yesterday (reported today) and will make $7.75 million in 2020 — likely with the Angels.

Now, announce Mookie.