Orioles Facing Big Issue After Angels Trade

They dealt right-handed pitcher Grayson Rodriguez to the Los Angeles Angels for outfielder Taylor Ward. Rodriguez hasn't pitched since 2024, when he went 13-4 with a 3.86 ERA over 20 games. Meanwhile, Ward was tied for 10th in baseball with 36 homers and tied for 11th with 103 RBIs this past season.

However, the Orioles swapped a long-term investment for a short-term one, per ESPN's Jeff Passan.

"Taylor Ward is a free agent after the 2026 season," he reported. "Baltimore, which has been looking for pitching, gave up a 26-year-old in Grayson Rodriguez who isn't a free agent until after 2029. He also missed all of the 2025 season with arm issues and is coming off an elbow cleanup."

Taylor Ward Trade Doesn't Help Orioles' Pitching

While Ward adds pop to Baltimore's lineup, the club still sorely needs pitching help. Dealing Rodriguez, who has 43 starts under his belt and was one of its developmental pieces after it drafted him No. 11 overall in 208, doesn't aid the rotation. The Texas native would've added depth to a unit that could've used it last season.

On the bright side, the Orioles have Rogers, who went 9-3 with a 1.81 ERA over 18 starts in 2025. They could also add other hurlers in free agency, including right-hander Chris Bassitt, southpaw Framber Valdez, or right-hander Dylan Cease.

Meanwhile, Ward led Los Angeles in RBIs and with 132 hits this past season. The 31-year-old also led the club with 25 homers and 144 hits in 2024.

Still, there's no guarantee that Ward will stick around long-term. If the 6-foot, 200-pounder leaves next offseason, the trade won't look good for Baltimore unless it wins the 2026 World Series.