DENVER –– After seven years of working through the minor leagues, Ryan Ward is set to make his Major League Baseball debut this weekend as the Los Angeles Dodgers call him up from Triple-A Oklahoma City.
Why it matters: Ward’s promotion marks a culmination of years of hard work and perseverance. At 28, he is one of the oldest players to make his MLB debut after a lengthy minor league career, making his story particularly inspiring for aspiring athletes.
Ward was drafted by the Dodgers in the eighth round of the 2019 MLB Draft, beginning his professional career with high hopes.
His impressive performance in the minors includes being named the Pacific Coast League MVP in 2025, where he hit .290 with 36 home runs and 122 RBIs over 143 games.
After a strong start to the 2026 season, batting .324 with four home runs and 14 RBIs in just 18 games, he finally received the call to join the Dodgers.
Driving the news: The Dodgers are planning to activate Ward during their series against the Colorado Rockies, with an official announcement expected later this weekend. He is currently on the taxi squad, indicating that a corresponding roster move is imminent.
Reports suggest that the team may place another player on the paternity list, allowing for Ward's activation.
Manager Dave Roberts has expressed confidence in Ward, stating that he has performed well and deserves this opportunity.
Ward’s promotion comes after a notable delay, having been added to the Dodgers' 40-man roster last offseason but not making the big-league team due to a poor spring training.
State of play: As the No. 19 ranked prospect in the Dodgers' farm system, Ward has consistently shown his potential in Triple-A. His statistics indicate he can be a valuable addition to the team.
In his minor league career, Ward has accumulated a .266 batting average, 154 home runs, and 520 RBIs over seven seasons.
His ability to play both corner outfield positions and first base gives the Dodgers flexibility in their lineup.
Ward's OPS has increased each year he has spent in Triple-A, demonstrating his growth as a player.
The big picture: Ward's rise through the Dodgers' ranks is a reminder of the challenges many players face in the minor leagues and the importance of persistence.
His story resonates with fans who appreciate the dedication required to succeed in professional sports.
Past winners of the Joe Bauman Home Run Award, which Ward claimed last year, include notable names like Pete Alonso and Joey Gallo, underscoring his talent.
Ward’s promotion highlights the Dodgers’ commitment to developing homegrown talent, a strategy that has served them well in recent years.
What they're saying: Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has been vocal about Ward’s capabilities and readiness for the majors.
“The thing I like about Ryan is he’s performed,” Roberts said. “We’ve asked him to do certain things, whether it’s positional versatility or cutting back on the strikeouts, hit for a little more power. He’s done all that.”
Roberts also acknowledged Ward's frustration at not having been called up sooner, stating, “For him to not get a shot, I’m sure he’s frustrated and understandably so.”
Ward’s teammates and coaches have praised his work ethic and the improvements he has made in his game, particularly in plate discipline.
By the numbers: Ward's statistics tell a story of determination and skill that has finally paid off.
In 2025, Ward had an OPS of .937, ranking him among the top hitters in the Pacific Coast League.
He has accumulated 95 walks against 141 strikeouts since the start of last year, showing improved plate discipline.
Ward's batting average of .324 this season is indicative of his readiness for the challenges of the MLB.
What's next: As Ward joins the Dodgers in Colorado, fans are eager to see how he will perform at the big league level.
His debut could occur as early as Saturday, April 18, 2026, if the Dodgers activate him as planned.
Ward may not see regular playing time immediately, but he could fill in for established players like Freddie Freeman or Teoscar Hernandez when they need rest.
Regardless of his initial role, Ward's call-up is a moment of celebration for both him and the Dodgers organization, marking a new chapter in his career.