The Cincinnati Reds are in need sign outfielder from Los Angeles Angels, a Dayton, Ohio native, has been the subject of significant trade speculation this offseason. According to MLB.com’s, the Angels are reportedly close to dealing an outfielder during this week’s MLB Winter Meetings.
Many believe that player to be Ward. Over the past three seasons, the Angels’ left fielder has posted a .260/.339/.441 slash line with 62 home runs and 187 RBIs. Throughout his career, Ward has excelled against left-handed pitching, boasting a .287/.355/.450 line. Last season, he registered an impressive .873 OPS against southpaws.
Considering the Reds’ struggles against left-handed pitching last year, the departure of Jonathan India, and their abundance of left-handed platoon options in the outfield, Ward would be a great fit. The 31-year-old is also under team control for two more seasons and is projected to earn $9.2 million next year.
Reds’ ideal trade target could stay put based on LA Angels’ perplexing offseason
While all of this seems like a perfect fit, the Angels’ offseason has been one of the most perplexing so far. Los Angeles was quick to make moves early in free agency, with GM Perry Minasian signing Travis d’Arnaud, Kyle Hendricks, and Yusei Kikuchi. They’re also actively searching for a replacement for the underperforming Anthony Rendon. But do these moves really suggest a team in rebuilding mode?
This brings up the issue with trading Ward. As Reds fans know, just because other teams are interested in your players doesn’t mean a trade is inevitable. Looking at the AL West landscape, it could be argued that the Angels still have a shot at the division title in 2025.
The Houston Astros are facing turmoil, even exploring trade options for star outfielder Kyle Tucker, and Alex Bregman’s future with the team is uncertain. The Athletics are mostly making moves to appease the MLBPA, while the Mariners, who were expected to be active, have been relatively quiet. The Rangers have made moves, but none have made a huge impact.
While it’s clear the Angels could trade Ward, their offseason strategy may lead them to hold on to one of their top players instead. If they do decide to move him, the Reds should definitely be a top contender for his services.
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