Breaking News: Ron Washington Misses Out on Another $7.8 Million Trade Opportunity
The Los Angeles Angels find themselves in a precarious position this season. Despite showing glimpses of being a competitive team, they have yet to prove that they are genuine contenders for the World Series. As the 2025 MLB trade deadline approaches, the organization must make a critical decision: commit to building a team capable of making a deep playoff run or begin dismantling and entering a rebuilding phase. Given their current performance and roster makeup, the likelihood leans heavily toward selling rather than buying.
Although the Angels have publicly indicated their intention to pursue a playoff berth, recent developments suggest that they may need to shift their strategy. According to Jim Bowden of The Athletic, the team is likely to part ways with several players to realign their long-term goals. One of the key players mentioned in trade discussions is outfielder Taylor Ward.
Bowden reported that while the Angels continue to position themselves as buyers, he expects that they will eventually realize the importance of not repeating past mistakes and take a selling approach instead. “The Angels insist they’re buyers, but come the deadline, I expect them to not make the same mistakes they’ve made in the past,” Bowden stated. “They should be sellers; if not, a buyer-to-buyer trade involving Ward would still make sense.”
Taylor Ward, who is now 31 years old, hasn’t had the most consistent season statistically—he’s currently hitting just .217 with a .292 on-base percentage. However, his power numbers have remained impressive. Ward has launched 20 home runs and driven in 57 RBIs so far this season. Beyond the numbers, his value is also boosted by the fact that he remains under team control through the 2026 season, which could be appealing for teams looking for longer-term value without a huge financial commitment.
Last year, Ward was also considered a valuable trade asset, but the Angels opted not to move him, a decision that may come back to haunt them. His continued strong performance at the plate makes him an appealing option for teams in need of offensive reinforcement, particularly in the outfield. According to Bowden, one team that could be a natural trade partner for the Angels is the Kansas City Royals. The Royals are currently searching for more power in their lineup, especially from the outfield, and Ward fits that need well. He isn’t necessarily a blockbuster name, but he represents one of the more underrated options available at this year’s trade deadline.
This latest development marks yet another missed opportunity under manager Ron Washington’s watch, as he reportedly failed to close a $7.8 million deal involving Ward. It’s a sign that the Angels’ front office and coaching staff may still be misaligned in their approach to team-building. As a result, the pressure is mounting for the organization to make decisive moves that align with their long-term strategy—whether that means going all-in or pressing the reset button.
If the Angels continue to hesitate or send mixed signals, they risk squandering the trade value of assets like Ward, thereby deepening their struggles in an already competitive American League.
Leave a Reply