Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Ryan Ward, a 28-year-old first baseman/left fielder drafted by the Dodgers in 2019, earned his long-awaited MLB callup on April 18 after seven pro seasons and 696 minor league games. In 2025, Ward was named Pacific Coast League MVP after hitting .290/.380/.557 with 36 home runs and 122 RBIs while leading the minors in those power categories. His callup lasted two games but included his first major league hit, an RBI single. Dodgers GM Brandon Gomes praised Ward's impressive improvements in zone control and strikeout reduction, which were previously the main holdup to his promotion. Manager Dave Roberts highlighted Ward's commitment to improving all aspects of his game including power, strike zone control, batting average, and defense.
Strengths
- + PCL MVP in 2025 with .290/.380/.557 slash line
- + Led minors with 36 home runs and 122 RBIs
- + Significant improvement in zone control and strikeout rate
- + Demonstrated commitment and work ethic over seven pro seasons
- + Versatile defender (first base and left field)
- + Earned callup after 696 minor league games
- + Recorded RBI single in MLB debut
Weaknesses
- - Limited MLB experience (only 2 games)
- - Long wait for callup suggests previous concerns about readiness
- - Brief callup stint limits sample size for evaluation
About
Thad Ward is a sp for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
SP
Chicago Cubs