As the Toronto Blue Jays ride the win-loss rollercoaster in a mediocre 2025 season, the hope is that eventually, they can establish themselves as trade deadline buyers.
Last season, the Blue Jays were forced to sell off their expiring free agents as they limped to a last-place finish. But right now, even with a 21-22 record, they're in a virtual tie with the Boston Red Sox for second in the American League East.
Now that Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has gotten his 14-year, $500 million extension, the Blue Jays would much rather compete for the playoffs this year than look to the future. And if they do end up staying in the playoff hunt, they could aggressively go after corner outfield help.
Though the market for corner outfielders is rather thin this year, one baseball writer believes the Los Angeles Angels might have the player Toronto would be seeking.
On Thursday, Heavy's Matthew Sullivan named Angels veteran Taylor Ward, who hit a career-high 25 home runs last season and is under contract through 2026, as a top hypothetical Blue Jays trade deadline target.
"The most intriguing name on the market for the Blue Jays is Los Angeles Angels outfielder Taylor Ward," Sullivan wrote. "Ward has just one year left of arbitration, and the Angels are looking to move off the veteran outfielder.
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"Ward is under contract for $7,825,000 for 2025 and will likely see a raise for 2026. It’s a great fit for Toronto. Adding Ward would give the Blue Jays their starting left fielder for the next two seasons."
Ward, 31, is off to a slow start to the season, batting .186 through 41 games. He does have 10 home runs already, however, so he could set another career-high in long balls this season if he reverts to his normal .250 clip.
Playing for the perpetually-disappointing Angels can be exhausting, so Ward may thrive in a new home.
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