The Baltimore Orioles outfield is looking strong heading into the 2026 MLB season.
The Baltimore Orioles enter the upcoming season with a noticeably different offensive outlook, one that reflects a front office pushing firmly into win‑now mode. After several years of building through youth and internal development, Baltimore has leaned into proven bats to complement its young core.
Adding established hitters in free agency and the trade market has transformed the lineup, and the Orioles now look far more equipped to compete in a deep American League East.
One of the most impactful changes came in the outfield. Baltimore took a calculated risk by acquiring Taylor Ward from the Los Angeles Angels, a move that signaled a sense of urgency.
The Orioles sent one of the organization’s former top prospects, Grayson Rodriguez, to complete the deal, fully aware that Ward is entering the final year of his contract. It was a bold decision, but one that aligns with a roster built to contend immediately rather than wait for future returns.
That gamble already looks more justified given how Ward is being viewed around the league. Over the weekend, MLB Network named Ward to its All‑Underrated Team in a social media post, highlighting his consistent production and two‑way value that often flies under the radar. The recognition underscored why Baltimore was willing to part with elite talent to secure his services, even with free agency looming.
Ward’s path to this point has not been linear. A former first‑round pick by the Angels in 2015, he spent years bouncing between roles before breaking out as a reliable everyday player.
His rise in Los Angeles was fueled by improved plate discipline, growing power and the ability to handle multiple outfield positions. Ward has quietly developed into one of the Angels’ most dependable hitters during his eight‑year tenure.
During the 2025 season, Ward delivered another strong offensive campaign. The 32‑year‑old veteran appeared in 157 games, posting a .228 batting average, .317 on‑base percentage and .792 OPS. He finished with 36 home runs and 103 RBIs, providing steady offensive production.
For the Orioles, Ward’s presence alongside other offseason additions such as first baseman Pete Alonso has dramatically raised the team’s offensive ceiling. His contract status does add risk, as Baltimore could lose him after the season, but the move makes sense for a club intent on maximizing its competitive window right now.
Being labeled underrated feels fitting. Ward has built a career on steady growth and dependable performance, and now, with Baltimore pushing for contention, he finally finds himself in the national spotlight.