Dodgers Interview: Andrew Friedman Opens Up on Emotional Decisions to Move On from Chris Taylor and Austin Barnes
It’s been a difficult week at Dodger Stadium — not because of the team’s performance, but because of two emotional departures that rocked the clubhouse: Austin Barnes was designated for assignment, and Chris Taylor was released. Speaking to media, Dodgers President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman got candid about the weight of those decisions and the state of the team moving forward.
“It’s been a very emotional week for all of us,” Friedman said. “Barnsy and CT have been in the middle of some huge moments for this organization. They’ve left an indelible mark on our culture.”
Friedman emphasized that the moves weren’t about sentiment — they were about keeping the Dodgers as competitive as possible in a tight NL West race. But that didn’t make the conversations any easier.
“These decisions were incredibly difficult. But with where we are in the division race and the composition of the roster, we felt like this was in the Dodgers’ best interest.”
A New Chapter for a New Core
While difficult, the moves also make room for the next wave of Dodgers, including rookie catcher Dalton Rushing and utility standout Hyeseong Kim.
“Dalton earned this opportunity. He’s got an incredible motor and work ethic. The final piece of a catcher’s development is running a big-league staff — and you can’t do that without being here,” Friedman explained.
Kim, meanwhile, has impressed with his versatility and speed, giving the roster a new dynamic.
“He fits. He brings energy, defense, and the ability to impact the game on the bases. We’ve been really encouraged.”
On Chris Taylor: “One of the toughest guys I’ve ever been around”
Friedman reflected deeply on Taylor’s transformation since arriving in 2016, when he was considered more of a depth piece than a game-changer.
“He came in hungry, did a trust fall with our staff, and turned himself into one of the toughest guys I’ve ever been around. A true pro. A great teammate. He’ll always have a place with us.”
Injuries and inconsistent playing time contributed to Taylor’s decline, but Friedman was clear — the impact Taylor had on the franchise won’t be forgotten.
“Our culture is in a much stronger spot than it was five years ago. CT’s fingerprints are all over that.”
Urgency Fueled by the Division Race
Friedman admitted this wasn’t part of the original plan back in spring. But the season — and competition — evolved quickly.
“We saw in 2021 that 106 wins didn’t win the division. Winning the NL West is our priority. Every game, every roster spot matters. We’re doing everything we can to win — with thoughtfulness and humanity.”
On the Pitching Staff: “It’s like a game of whack-a-mole”
Injuries to Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and others have forced the Dodgers to constantly adapt.
“We’re in May, and we’ve already had a lot thrown at us. The hardest part of the job is pitching injuries. It’s what keeps me up at night,” Friedman admitted.
He also confirmed that Snell is ramping up his throwing, while Glasnow is further along and nearing a return to the mound. The front office is being cautious, trying to avoid setbacks by biting things off “in small chunks.”
Final Thoughts: A Balance of Respect and Results
Friedman summed up the tension between sentiment and strategy perfectly:
“It’s never easy to say goodbye to players who’ve meant so much. But we have to balance that with doing what’s best for the team today — and for October.”
He added that while the present is focused on winning games, the past is never forgotten.
“Five years from now, when our culture is even stronger, CT and Barnsy will still be a part of that story.”
