Overview
- Baltimore acquired Taylor Ward from Los Angeles for Grayson Rodriguez in a straight swap, bringing in a right-handed slugger who hit 36 home runs in 2025 and is under control through 2026 at an expected $13–14 million.
- Mike Elias said the Orioles targeted Ward because comparable right-handed power was scarce on the market, acknowledging the control mismatch and noting Ward could become a qualifying-offer candidate after 2026.
- After trading Rodriguez, the Orioles are pursuing top or top-half starters and late-inning relief, with Félix Bautista sidelined for most of 2026 and a potential reunion with non-tendered right-hander Albert Suárez still in play.
- The Angels expect Rodriguez, who missed 2025 with elbow inflammation, a lat strain and bone-spur surgery, to be eased back with Spring Training as the target, with pitching coach Mike Maddux set to guide his return.
- Los Angeles gained long-term, cost-controlled rotation upside and created flexibility estimated at about $40 million below last year’s payroll, with plans to seek another starter, bullpen help and an outfield replacement for Ward.