Overview
- Taylor Ward said the deal "was definitely a blindside" but expressed gratitude and eagerness to join the Orioles during his introductory media session.
- Team president Mike Elias called Ward a scarce offensive fit and said the club "leaned into" paying the price, acknowledging the control mismatch with Grayson Rodriguez.
- Ward, coming off a 36-homer, 103-RBI season, is expected to be an everyday right-handed power bat near the top of the order and likely the regular left fielder.
- Elias said the Orioles are actively pursuing high-end starting pitching and a ninth-inning reliever to cover for Bautista, who is expected to miss most of next season after shoulder surgery.
- Baltimore finalized a $2.25 million 2026 agreement with the injured closer and non-tendered Albert Suárez, while the Angels take on Rodriguez, who has not pitched since July 31, 2024.