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The Seattle Mariners have bolstered their lineup by acquiring outfielder Taylor Ward from the Baltimore Orioles just before the trade deadline on Monday (August 3). Ward, a 32-year-old slugger, is hitting .246 with seven home runs this season, a significant drop from his 36 homers last year with the Los Angeles Angels. Despite the dip in power, Ward has excelled in getting on base, boasting one of the best walk rates in baseball this year.
The Orioles traded Ward in exchange for right-handers Alex Hoppe, Brock Moore, and Harrison Kreiling, as reported by MLB.com. Ward, who joined the Orioles from the Angels in an offseason trade, expressed his desire to stay in Baltimore but acknowledged the business nature of baseball. "I'd love to stay here. Love the guys, love the coaching staff," Ward said after a recent game. "But I understand, at the end of the day, it's a business."
The Orioles, currently sitting 2.5 games out of the American League Wild Card race, have been balancing short-term playoff hopes with long-term franchise health. Yahoo Sports highlighted the Orioles' need to make strategic decisions, considering Ward's impending free agency and the team's competitive position.
Ward's trade to the Mariners addresses their need for a right-handed power hitter. As Sports Illustrated noted, Ward's ability to hit left-handed pitching makes him a valuable asset for Seattle as they aim to strengthen their playoff push.