With the MLB trade deadline just two days away, the Los Angeles Angels remain uncertain about whether they will act as buyers or sellers. This indecision places the team in a difficult spot as they weigh their options heading into the crucial closing hours of the season. Among their assets, right-handed hitter Taylor Ward stands out as one of the most valuable commodities available, under team control through 2025.
Market Demand and Team Needs for Right-Handed Hitters
The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly looking to add a right-handed bat but have yet to find an ideal fit. Matt Gelb of The Athletic noted that the Phillies have been unimpressed with the available options on the market. Their current roster includes Alec Bohm, a right-handed hitting third baseman currently on the injured list, and Eugenio Suarez from the Arizona Diamondbacks emerged as a top right-handed hitter available, but he would not be a perfect match for Philadelphia.
Defensive concerns have also challenged the Phillies, evidenced by Kyle Schwarber‘s deployment in left field despite it not being his natural position. The needs of the Phillies and similar teams increase the value of a player like Ward, whose right-handed hitting power is a sought-after asset.
Angels’ General Manager Recognizes Ward’s Strong Trade Value
General Manager Perry Minasian is aware of the interest in Taylor Ward and the leverage the Angels hold. Gelb reported that the Angels
“have put a huge price on Taylor Ward, who bashed his 25th homer Monday night.”
Ward’s recent home run power has intensified his trade value, especially among teams searching for cost-controlled offensive contributors.
As an alternative target, the Texas Rangers’ Adolis Garcia has been mentioned, though there is no confirmation that the Rangers are willing to trade him. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Rangers have not yet committed to selling, particularly as they are battling closely with the Angels in the standings this week.
Taylor Ward’s Performance and Salary Appeal
Among right-handed hitters in the trade market, Eugenio Suarez remains a top priority, but Taylor Ward represents a strong secondary option who could still command significant returns. Ward, 31, currently holds a .232 batting average with a .308 on-base percentage and a .491 slugging mark. His .800 OPS, which scored 118 OPS+, surpasses his career average of .765 after a slow start this season.
Through 105 games, Ward has already matched his career high with 25 home runs and set a new personal best of 78 RBIs. Despite striking out 125 times, his production over his last 324 plate appearances since May 4 shows improvement, with a slash line of .258/.346/.552. These numbers highlight his growing consistency and power potential as the season progresses.
Crucially, Ward’s contract is another attractive factor for interested teams. His $7.825 million salary is manageable across most MLB rosters, with only modest increases expected through 2026, the final year of his salary arbitration eligibility. This cost control offers additional appeal to buyers looking to balance production with budget flexibility.
Potential Challenges and Strategic Considerations for the Angels
While Ward is an enticing trade asset, the Angels face the challenge of replacing him adequately at the major league level. Veterans Jorge Soler and Mike Trout have health concerns that limit their ability to consistently handle outfield duties, often requiring them to serve as designated hitters. Neither player can currently absorb the full defensive workload that Ward covers, making any trade a significant roster adjustment.
This dynamic forces the Angels to carefully evaluate their strategy during this deadline period, weighing the potential return for Ward against the immediate impact on their lineup and outfield depth. Perry Minasian and the front office are among the most closely watched decision-makers in the league as the next 48 hours unfold.
Implications for the Team and Broader Trade Market
The uncertainty surrounding the Angels’ role as buyers or sellers, combined with the premium price they have set on Taylor Ward, illustrates how pivotal this trade deadline could be for the franchise’s direction. The potential movement of a player like Ward, who blends power hitting with a cost-controlled contract, might signal a significant shift in roster construction and team priorities.
Moreover, the trade deadline decisions by the Angels and other contenders, such as the Phillies and Rangers, will shape competitive balance in the American League for the rest of the season. Teams facing challenges in roster composition and injury management will closely monitor these transactions to improve their positioning down the stretch.