Ryan Ward Showcasing Extreme Power Once Again
Los Angeles Dodgers outfield prospect Ryan Ward is a power-first player whose claim to fame is that he hits a lot of home runs. The former eight-round pick went yard 76 times from 2021 through 2023 and is hitting homers at an even higher rate than ever this season. With that said, outside of his power, there are real flaws in Ward's game. His strikeout total is more than seven times his walk total, and his batting average and on-base percentage are both significantly lower than you'd like to see from someone with a home run every 2.2 games. Finally, the 26-year-old is an unstable defender, possessing a subpar arm and likely settling into left field or designated hitter long-term. Nevertheless, Ward went on a tear last week, continuing to slug homers but also cutting down on his strikeout rate. He ultimately went 9-for-19, slugging five homers over four games. He also drove in 11 runs, worked two walks, and struck out four times. Before the Dodgers consider Ward for a promotion to the majors, he'll need to show a little more consistency in terms of getting on base and reducing his strikeout total.
May 1
