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

This week, we make the bold case for a Rockies starter—even in Denver—and we take a peek at two overlooked NL West first basemen who deserve more attention.
May 2 2026 3:05am
Pedro Ramírez is demonstrating real power at AAA Iowa, could there be a path to MLB playing time for one of the minor's hottest hitting infielders?
May 1 2026 3:05am
Three key Twins hitters have yet to deliver on the promise they offered as prospects, and time may be running out. Plus, a closer look at Shane Smith, Daniel Schneemann, and Jack Flaherty, and the KC bullpen.
Apr 30 2026 3:05am
The Rangers offense is sputtering and a change at 2B could help kick start their offense.
Apr 29 2026 3:06am
Could Griffin Jax be the answer to the Rays' rotation depth issues? Plus, Volpe nearing a return, upheaval in Boston, and more from around the AL East.
Apr 28 2026 3:05am

Tools