Why Dodgers Prospect Ryan Ward Focuses on What He Can Control While Waiting for His Chance

Phoenix — The journey from minor leagues to Major League Baseball is a crucial transition for players, one that often tests their resilience and talent. For 28-year-old Ryan Ward, a prospect for the Dodgers, this transition is a work in progress.

After being drafted in the eighth round in 2019, Ward has spent the last three seasons with Triple-A Oklahoma City, where he played 402 games. In a standout 2022 season, he earned the Pacific Coast League MVP title with 36 home runs, 122 RBIs, and an impressive .290/.380/.557 batting average. Despite this success, Ward was optioned to Oklahoma City after Sunday’s Cactus League game against the Athletics, prolonging his wait for a shot in the majors.

“It’s hard because you look at our roster, and it’s very talented, obviously,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. “We have the No. 1 or No. 2 farm system in all of baseball. Some of these guys, obviously, didn’t sign up for that, being drafted by the Dodgers. You just have to put your head down and keep performing, and hopefully the opportunity lends itself. It’s tough.”

Early in the offseason, Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes expressed optimism about Ward’s potential opportunities, mentioning his addition to the 40-man roster. However, the signing of outfielder Kyle Tucker to a four-year, $240-million contract in January complicated Ward’s path, as the Dodgers already had several established players, including Teoscar Hernández and Tommy Edman.

“Ward’s problem is that the Dodgers are so talented that it’s hard to find a spot for him,” noted MLB Pipeline prospect analyst Jim Callis. “You could make the case that he could have helped them more than Michael Conforto did last year.”

During the Cactus League, Ward struggled at the plate, hitting just five for 32 for a .156 average, but he demonstrated his willingness to adapt by taking more reps at first base. Previously, he played primarily as an outfielder and second baseman at Bryant University.

“I’ve been learning new positions,” Ward commented. “I think the versatility helps… just being able to play different positions at different times and feeling comfortable with it, and continuing to hit is really what I’m trying to do.”

Scouts have taken note of Ward’s offensive capabilities, particularly his power. “Ryan Ward is one of the best old prospects in baseball,” Callis said. “He’s 28, but he has legit power and has hit 91 homers the last three seasons in Triple-A. He’s probably a platoon player more than a regular but he’s a useful left-handed bat.”

Despite the challenges he faces, Ward remains focused on maintaining his composure and concentrating on his performance.

“It’s something that I’ve always said, which is ‘control what you can control,’” he stated. “If I start focusing on that and start pressing or getting angry, my play is just going to go downhill. So, just trying to keep a clear head and focus on what I can do.”