The 2026 MLB Trade Deadline is coming up, and the Arizona Diamondbacks could use some extra help.

Currently, Arizona is 51-49 and second in the National League West Division. After a 5-2 loss to the Athletics on Monday, the Diamondbacks are 2-2 in the second half of the season.

Recently, Diamondbacks general manager Mike Hazen made it clear that the organization might be buyers at the Deadline, though he also stressed the importance of getting healthy and how that can benefit the team moving forward.

However, it may not be best for Arizona to wait on health, especially with a struggling offense. Therefore, it should look to address some concerns in the batter’s box, and Baltimore Orioles outfielder Taylor Ward might be the answer.

Recently, The Athletic constructed its second "Big Board" of the players who could be moved by the deadline. It consists of the top 75-plus talents, and each player is assigned a color that represents the likelihood of being moved. Red is an indicator for a move being unlikely, while green represents the most likely chances.

In the middle is yellow, and that is where Ward falls. Moreover, like the other players, Ward is assigned three teams that he would be the best fit for. The Diamondbacks make that list alongside the Detroit Tigers and Philadelphia Phillies. 

As previously mentioned, the Diamondbacks need hitting help. According to MLB.com, Arizona ranks 22nd in batting average (.237), 24th in hits (789) while being tied with the Milwaukee Brewers for 29th in home runs (94). 

Ward is not a power hitter, at least not right now. In the 2025 campaign, he launched 36 home runs, but he only has seven this season.

The Athletic views Ward as an above-average hitter, and it believes that his other metrics, such as walk rate and OPS, make up for the power that has since disappeared. Perhaps the Diamondbacks are willing to take a flyer on Ward and see if his power returns. 

With unrestricted free agency approaching for the 32-year-old in the offseason, the commitment is not immense. Hypothetically, if Ward worked out for the Diamondbacks, they could construct a deal to keep him in the clubhouse. If not, he checks out as a rental.

Regardless, Arizona has to do something to bolster its offense if it wants to make the playoffs and find any level of success. Ward brings veteran experience and consistency. If he happens to rediscover what was once impressive power, that is even more beneficial for the Diamondbacks.

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