It already looks like the Mariners didn't miss out by not reuniting with Chris Taylor

When the Los Angeles Dodgers parted ways with veteran utility player Chris Taylor, the idea of a reunion sparked some sentimental appeal among Seattle Mariners fans.

After all, Taylor was one of the franchise’s most well-known "ones that got away" — a once-unremarkable infielder who blossomed into a key piece of a perennial contender in Los Angeles after being traded by Seattle for next to nothing in 2016. A return to the Pacific Northwest would have felt like a full-circle moment — a chance for the Mariners to bring back a player who had realized his potential elsewhere and close the loop on a “What if?” story.

However, baseball isn’t about fairy tales — it’s about fit, production, and timing. And so far, the Mariners look wise for not making that reunion happen.

Mariners wise to avoid Chris Taylor reunion

Taylor stayed in town and landed a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Angels worth $760,000 after being released by the Dodgers. While the low cost made him an intriguing depth option, the early returns so far have been uninspiring. Through his first two games with the Angels, Taylor is hitless in six at-bats with four strikeouts. While he’s still contributing defensively — showcasing solid range and instincts — his bat looks like it was left in the dugout in Dodger Stadium.

Meanwhile, the Mariners’ most notable waiver claim this season has started to show real signs of life. Leody Taveras, who was acquired in a low-risk move, is beginning to settle in at the plate. Since May 21, the switch-hitting outfielder is 6-for-20 with two home runs, showing flashes of the offensive upside that once made him a top prospect in the Rangers’ system. He’s also been a standout defensively, making several strong plays in the outfield that have had fans buzzing on social media.

Even more, recent off-field revelations about Victor Robles not returning until September have made the Mariners’ current outfield picture look even more stable. Taveras stepping up now feels not only timely, but essential.

Seattle didn’t chase nostalgia and a feel good story in Taylor, and it’s looking like the right call. While he may still hold value as a role player, the Mariners chose to bet on upside. So far, that bet is paying off. Instead of rewriting a story, they went for the smart edit.