The Los Angeles Dodgers considered trading outfielder Ryan Ward after signing All-Star Kyle Tucker to a four-year deal last week, per The Atlhetic’s Fabian Ardaya.
Before Tucker signed, Ward was one of the candidates for the final spot in the outfield following Michael Conforto’s departure into free agency.
“The team explored trade talks for Ward in the wake of Tucker’s signing,” Ardaya wrote.
“Perhaps the Dodgers were trying to see if they could extract a prospect of value for a player who has produced in the minor leagues but now seems blocked by age (Tucker is 29 to Ward’s 28), along with opportunity. The Dodgers need to clear a 40-man roster spot, with Ward or [Michael] Siani as possibilities to open up a spot.”
L.A. moved Siani instead of Ward — designating Siani for assignment to make room for Tucker on the roster — but Ward’s role for next season has definitely been called into question.
Where Will Ryan Ward Fit for the Dodgers Next Season?
Ward tore up Triple-A last season, posting a .937 OPS through 143 games at the level. He had a career-high 36 home runs and 122 RBIs during 2025, and earned the Pacific Coast League’s MVP award.
Throughout his successful season, fans called for the Dodgers to call up the outfielder amid the disastrous spell Michael Conforto had for the club, but the call never came. He is still yet to make his MLB debut, but could very well do so in 2026 if he stays hot during the spring.
After the Tucker signing, the Dodgers’ outfield is all but certain for 2026. Andy Pages and Teoscar Hernandez will join Tucker on the grass, but Ward could be a fourth-choice outfielder if the Dodgers avoid making any more moves.
Ward’s competitors for the role are Alex Call and eventually Kiké Hernandez, who is likely to sign with the team when the injured list opens up. Neither of the two had a great 2025 season as far as offensive production goes, leaving the door open for Ward to seize a spot on the Opening Day roster. If the 28-year-old puts together a solid enough spring campaign, he could make his debut for the Dodgers in the upcoming season.
