Outfielder Taylor Ward was traded from the Los Angeles Angels to the Baltimore Orioles in exchange for right-hander Grayson Rodriguez. The 31-year-old expressed surprise at the deal but excitement about joining Baltimore's lineup. The move aims to bolster the Orioles' outfield after their 75-87 season in 2025.
Taylor Ward received the news of his trade from Angels general manager Perry Minasian around 8 p.m. PT last Tuesday. The 1-for-1 swap sent Ward to the Orioles for Grayson Rodriguez, catching the veteran outfielder off guard despite years of surrounding rumors.
“I had no idea,” Ward said during a Zoom call with Baltimore media on Monday. “You could say it was definitely a blindside. I had no idea that the Orioles were interested in me, but definitely thankful, grateful for the opportunity and excited to get going with them.”
Orioles president of baseball operations Mike Elias highlighted Ward's appeal. “There’s a lot to like with Taylor Ward. He’s actually somebody that we’ve been chasing for at least a couple years, just because of the profile, the big right-handed power,” Elias said. “I think it brings a lot of stability to our outfield picture. I think it’s going to hopefully make the rest of the lineup better.”
Ward, entering his final arbitration year and free agency after 2026, impressed in 2025 with career highs of 31 doubles, 36 home runs, 103 RBIs, and 75 walks. Over the past four seasons, he posted a .783 OPS, .251 average, 98 homers, and 10.2 bWAR in 545 games. He credits consistent mechanics for his power surge: “I’m a huge believer in mechanics. I think when mechanics are clicking, everything pretty much falls in line.”
Ward anticipates playing left field and contributing in the middle of the order. He has already spoken with new Orioles manager Craig Albernaz and hitting coach Dustin Lind, describing them as “fiery guys.” Baltimore, seeking a postseason return, views Ward as key to their 2026 turnaround.
Ward remains focused on simplicity: “I think nothing changes. I'm a simple guy, simple thoughts. Just trying to keep things simple and not overthink anything.”