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Ward's Power: Can Orioles OF sustain slugging?
10 Feb
Summary
- Taylor Ward hit a career-high 36 home runs last season.
- Concerns exist about Ward's on-base skills and strikeout rate.
- Ward faces pressure to perform for a potential free-agent deal.
Taylor Ward, acquired by the Baltimore Orioles in a trade with the Los Angeles Angels, is heading into a pivotal season. In the previous regular season, Ward achieved a career-high 36 home runs and 103 runs batted in, tying him for 10th in MLB for home runs. This power display came with questions about sustainability, given his limited on-base skills and high strikeout rate.
Orioles management moved the left-field wall in at Camden Yards, a move seemingly designed to benefit power hitters like Ward. However, the long-term impact of this park change remains uncertain, as Camden Yards has historically been a pitcher-friendly venue. Ward's performance will be closely watched, as he is expected to be a free agent at the end of the 2026 season. His success this season is crucial for both his current team and his future contract negotiations on the open market.
