Taylor Ward was not at Baltimore Orioles spring training camp earlier this week.
The Baltimore Orioles revamped their roster ahead of spring training, but one of their key offseason additions was temporarily away from the club for a personal reason. Taylor Ward, who is expected to play a major role in Baltimore’s lineup this season, stepped away from camp this past Sunday as he and his family welcomed a new addition.
Ward’s absence was not injury related, and the update quickly brought positive news. Orioles manager Craig Albernaz addressed the situation when speaking with reporters.
As Kyle Goon of The Baltimore Banner reported, “Notable absence in the lineup today — Taylor Ward is away from the Orioles for the birth of his third child. According to manager Craig Albernaz, a 10‑pound baby boy. He should return before opening day.”
The personal news gives Ward time to be with his family while also keeping him on track to be ready for the start of the regular season. For Baltimore, that is especially important given how significant of a role he is expected to play in 2026.
The Orioles acquired Ward from the Los Angeles Angels this winter in a bold move that sent right‑hander Grayson Rodriguez the other way. Despite Ward being set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season, the trade signaled Baltimore’s aggressive, all‑in approach as it looks to return to postseason contention in 2026.
The deal also came as Rodriguez has continued to deal with injuries, with the pitcher expected to begin the 2026 season on the injured list with the Angels. That context makes Ward’s presence in the Orioles lineup even more important.
A veteran of eight MLB seasons, Ward spent his entire career with the Angels after being selected in the first round of the 2015 MLB Draft. He now enters a new chapter in Baltimore, both professionally and personally.
On the field, Ward is coming off a strong 2025 season in which he appeared in 157 games and hit .228 with a .317 on‑base percentage and .792 OPS. He also delivered his typical power production, launching 36 home runs and driving in 103 RBIs, numbers that should help anchor the middle of Baltimore’s lineup alongside free agent first baseman acquisition Pete Alonso.
With Opening Day approaching, the Orioles expect Ward back in camp soon. Between his veteran presence and offensive upside, he could be a key factor in determining how far Baltimore can go in 2026.