Angels Outfielder Taylor Ward Welcomes New Addition to Family, Placed on Paternity List

Taylor Ward, a key player for the Los Angeles Angels, is taking a break from the team to be with his growing family. The Angels announced Tuesday that they placed Ward on the paternity list, meaning he will be away from the team for a few days. Ward is expected to rejoin the Angels for their series opener in Washington on Friday.

Ward's absence comes at a time when the Angels are looking to make a push for the playoffs. Ward has been a key contributor to the team's success, leading the team with 16 homers and 55 runs batted in across 103 games.

Ward's name was swirling around the rumor mill leading up to the July 30 trade deadline. He was reportedly connected to several teams, but the Angels didn't pull the trigger and held onto him. Ward is under team control through 2026 and the Angels are hoping he can continue to be a key player for them in the years to come.

Ward's Recent Success and the Trade Deadline

Despite his success, Ward has been extremely streaky this season, which might be why general manager Perry Minasian didn't get an enticing offer for the outfielder. He started the year strong, much like in 2022, only to struggle in June and July. In comparison, he slashed .281/.360/.473 in 135 games in 2022 and .253/.335/.421 in 97 games in 2023.

However, Ward has shown signs of life recently. On July 28, he hit a grand slam against the Oakland Athletics to cap the team's comeback in an 8-6 win. He also told reporters that he tried not to think about being traded despite hearing some of the rumors.

“I haven’t really thought about it,” Ward said. “I just come in here every day and do the best I can to get better. Whatever happens, happens. I can’t control it. So I’m not really thinking about it.”

A Look Ahead: Ward's Future With the Angels

Ward is arbitration-eligible next season and in 2026. The Angels would love to see him finish the season strong and build on his recent success at the plate. The team's manager, Ron Washington, had high praise for Ward's recent at-bats.

“His at-bats have been quality [recently],” Washington said. “When you have 600 at-bats, you go through [slumps]. But each time he walks up there, we know something big can happen. And today, he did it.”

Ward's time on the paternity list will be a short one, but it is a reminder that baseball players are human beings with lives outside of the game. Congratulations to Ward and his family on the new addition!

What's Next for Ward and the Angels?

With Ward on the paternity list, the Angels will look to other players to step up. The team is in a tight race for a playoff spot, and they will need to continue to play well in order to make a run. While Ward's absence will be felt, his return is expected soon. His focus, for now, will be on his growing family. The Angels, meanwhile, will keep their sights set on the postseason.