Phillies Eye Angels' Taylor Ward as Right-Handed Power Bat in Trade Talks

The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly targeting Los Angeles Angels outfielder Taylor Ward, with Jon Morosi indicating a "better than 50/50 chance" the Angels trade one of their veteran outfielders. Ward, 31, a 2015 first-round pick, offers a polished right-handed power profile, hitting 23+ homers in three of the last four seasons. In 2025, he posted 36 homers and 103 RBIs with a .228 average, ranking fifth in the AL in home runs and sixth in RBIs, recovering from a 2024 fractured nose. Despite high strikeouts (175), Ward shows strong plate discipline with 75 walks (7th in AL) and a 92nd-percentile chase rate. He is seen as a steady hitter providing lineup protection for Bryce Harper. Defensively, he has played extensively in left and right field. Ward is entering his final contract season, projected to earn around $11 million. The Phillies might offer prospects like Gabriel Rincones Jr. and Keaton Anthony. His .918 OPS against left-handers in 2025 makes him an attractive fit to complement lefty bats, balancing the Phillies' lineup.