The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to promote slugging outfielder Ryan Ward from Triple-A Oklahoma City, according to a report. Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged rumors but declined to confirm details before Saturday's game against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. The move does not stem from any injury on the active roster.
DENVER -- Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts addressed speculation about an upcoming roster addition ahead of Saturday's matchup with the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. While the club has not officially confirmed, a report from The Athletic indicated plans to call up Ryan Ward, the organization's No. 19 prospect according to MLB Pipeline. Roberts said, “There’s some talk and right now, I’m gonna kind of stay hush on this.” He added, “Obviously there’s some thoughts and things that are happening, but from different people who want it to be quiet. So I think that right now, we’ve got to stay in the moment and have a conversation tomorrow.” The manager noted that the potential transaction would not involve an injury replacement for any current player on the 26-man roster. Ward, a 28-year-old left-handed hitter selected in the eighth round of the 2019 MLB Draft, has spent seven years in the Dodgers' farm system. He earned Pacific Coast League MVP honors last season with Triple-A Oklahoma City, posting 36 home runs, 122 RBIs and a .937 OPS. In 2026, Ward has started strongly with a 1.020 OPS and four homers, including a 445-foot leadoff blast on Thursday. He excels against right-handed pitching -- slashing .319/.402/.636 with 31 homers last year -- but struggles versus lefties, where he managed a .686 OPS. MLB Pipeline views him as a platoon candidate, primarily suited for left field or first base, though his 5-foot-10 frame limits him at the latter position due to below-average arm strength and range.
