The Cincinnati Reds may need to close the book on the fanciful idea of acquiring Los Angeles Angels outfielder Taylor Ward. An Ohio native, Ward has long been a desired trade target for Reds fans, but it just doesn't seem realistic anymore.
The 31-year-old Ward has been a 20-plus home run threat for the last four seasons. This season, Ward is hitting just .225, but has a .474 slugging percentage and 22 round trippers. That's something Los Angeles may not want to part with, especially if they continue to see themselves as playoff contenders.
If the Angels end up being surprising buyers — rather than be expected sellers — at the 2025 MLB trade deadline, the Reds can kiss the idea of Ward making a return to Ohio goodbye.