PT TOMORROW: AL West—Late-blooming Ward with traction?
Apr 21 2022
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
This week, we check in on young infielders with upside in S.F. and Arizona, are reintroduced to an old NL West friend in L.A.
Aug 29 2026 3:05am
Aug 29 2026 3:05am
Luke Adams, Cooper Hjerpe, Owen Ayers, and BJ Murray may be among the guys called up to make their MLB debut in the NL Central
Aug 28 2026 3:05am
Aug 28 2026 3:05am
Angel Genao has been getting plenty of playing time in Cleveland, often at the expense of Brayan Rocchio. Plus, the possible return of Drew Thorpe for CHW, the bullpen outlook in DET, Sal Perez's 2H rebound, and Joe Ryan's recovery in MIN.
Aug 27 2026 3:06am
Aug 27 2026 3:06am
The A's have been depleted by injuries, but are getting some needed outfield help soon.
Aug 26 2026 3:05am
Aug 26 2026 3:05am
Could George Springer's playing time continue to slip as his struggles continue? Plus, Blaze Alexander nearing a return for BAL, and rotation updates for TB, BOS, and NYY.
Aug 25 2026 3:05am
Aug 25 2026 3:05am
