As the MLB trade deadline nears, the Los Angeles Angels face mounting pressure to consider trading Taylor Ward amid their ongoing struggle to reach a .500 record. Ward, who has become a standout player despite the team’s disappointing seasons, is drawing significant attention from other clubs due to his impressive power hitting. Team president Perry Minasian is likely to explore trade possibilities for Ward unless the Angels mount a credible push for the American League Wild Card.
Similar recent moves, like the Miami Marlins trading outfielder Bryan De La Cruz to the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for two highly regarded prospects, suggest the Angels could receive considerable value for Ward. With sellers favored this season, Minasian might capitalize on one of the best outfielders available to strengthen the team’s future.
Potential Trade With San Diego Involving Tirso Ornelas and Victor Lizarraga
Among the most talked-about options is a deal sending Ward to the San Diego Padres, a team that fits well with his skill set and could slot him into a formidable cleanup spot. The Padres, boasting three MVP-level players, would pose a significant threat with Ward’s addition in their lineup.
In return, the Angels would likely acquire outfielder Tirso Ornelas, who broke out at AAA last season after a slow start to his minor league career. Ornelas has repeated solid performance this year, despite lacking his previous power output, and made his MLB debut with modest results. Anaheim might see potential in developing Ornelas into a reliable corner outfielder.
Pitcher Victor Lizarraga would also come to the Angels as part of the trade. Since signing out of Mexico, Lizarraga has consistently advanced one level each season, though his progress stalled in AA this year. Angels’ fans may worry about this plateau, but a fresh environment with Anaheim’s effective player development staff could help unlock Lizarraga’s potential.
Exchange Proposal With Cleveland Featuring Parker Messick and Juan Brito
The Cleveland Guardians have expressed interest in upgrading their outfield, particularly with Nolan Jones underperforming this year. Adding Ward would address that need, pairing him with José Ramírez as the team seeks a stronger run in the crowded Wild Card race.
The Angels would aim to receive left-handed pitcher Parker Messick, a second-round draft pick in 2022 who has excelled at every minor league stage. On the verge of his major league debut, Messick is viewed as a sturdy rotation contributor rather than an ace, making him a valuable asset for Anaheim’s pitching depth.
Utility player Juan Brito would also be part of this trade. Primarily a second baseman and corner outfielder, Brito offers defensive versatility, even if not exceptional. Despite a setback from thumb surgery this season, Brito has resumed progress and could add depth and youthful energy to the Angels’ roster.
Trade Idea Involving Kansas City for Catcher Carter Jensen
A different scenario focuses on a trade with the Kansas City Royals, where the Angels would send Taylor Ward along with starter Tyler Anderson in exchange for top catching prospect Carter Jensen. Given the Angels’ longer-term outlook centered around 2026, acquiring Jensen would be a strategic move to bolster their future lineup.
Jensen stands out from current catcher Logan O’Hoppe with his defensive skills, including a strong arm and a seasoned presence behind the plate. Considering O’Hoppe’s defensive struggles during the season, Jensen offers a meaningful upgrade that could allow O’Hoppe to transition to corner outfield.
At every level, Jensen has demonstrated solid hitting ability and is seen as a strong candidate to start as the Angels’ Opening Day catcher in 2026 if this trade materializes. Such a move would significantly enhance Anaheim’s catching depth and overall team structure for the coming years.
How These Trades Could Impact the Angels’ Future
The possibility of trading Taylor Ward illustrates the difficult position the Angels face as they balance current competitiveness with rebuilding for the future. Ward’s power bat remains a valuable asset that could command significant returns from contenders looking to strengthen their lineups.
Perry Minasian’s decisions at the deadline will influence Anaheim’s roster trajectory, with options ranging from acquiring promising young talent like Ornelas, Messick, Brito, or Jensen, to immediately addressing multiple team needs. These potential trades reflect both the uncertainty and opportunity for the Angels as they navigate a pivotal moment in the 2025 season.
Should the Angels proceed with any of these deals, it will signal a shift towards building a more competitive team for the future while recognizing the challenges of contending this year. The outcome of the trade deadline will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as the Halos attempt to balance hope and realism in a demanding MLB landscape.