PT TOMORROW: AL West—Late-blooming Ward with traction?

Los Angeles Angels

To the surprise (and disbelief) of most observers, Mgr Joe Maddon announced prior to Opening Day that Taylor Ward (OF, LAA) would be his primary RF starter. And now despite a brief IL stint (groin) that delayed his Opening Day debut, Ward has been in the lineup for all five games since his return, with early results—5-for-15, 4 walks, a HR and SB—that are thus far validating Maddon's call.

A 2015 1st-round pick as a catcher, the athletic Ward moved on from this spot in the club's effort to unlock his bat, and his ascent has been delayed by positional changes and injuries. But Ward has also laid waste to high-minors pitching since 2018, posting a 1.027 OPS over 838 Triple-A PA. As a part-time MLBer last season, Ward...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

NL West: Díaz to see regular playing time in SD and early season bullpen usage around the NL West
Apr 3 2025 3:08am
How will Richard Fitts be affected by the expected returns of Brayan Bello and Lucas Giolito? Plus, more injury and opening weekend fallout from the AL East.
Apr 2 2025 3:08am
With Josh Jung hurt again, does Jake Burger moving back to 3B make the most sense for the Rangers?
Apr 1 2025 3:09am
And where could the Pirates turn for saves if their late inning relievers continue to struggle?
Mar 29 2025 3:07am
With several outfielders starting the season on the IL, Javier Báez has been getting some center field reps in Detroit.
Mar 28 2025 3:08am

Tools