MLB Trade Rumors: Angels Asking For "GIANT Returns" In Trade For This One Player

As the MLB trade deadline nears, the Los Angeles Angels are reportedly setting their sights high for potential deals involving outfielder Taylor Ward.

According to ESPN's Jeff Passan and other major-league sources, Angels general manager Perry Minasian is seeking "giant returns" for Ward, reflecting a strategic push to extract maximum value from their key assets.

TAYLOR WARD 3-RUN SHOT 🚨@Angels | #RepTheHalo pic.twitter.com/XcwmVsssoQ
— Bally Sports West (@BallySportWest) May 26, 2024

Ward, who is under team control through 2026, has been identified as a pivotal piece in the Angels' plans to revamp their farm system, currently one of the weakest in baseball.

This season, the 30-year-old is slashing .253/.322/.445, with 11 home runs, 34 RBIs, two stolen bases, and 30 runs scored across 61 games played.

Taylor Ward gives the Angels the lead in the 8th! pic.twitter.com/OIdpMSRASH
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) May 29, 2024

The Angels’ demand for a substantial return on Ward aligns with their broader strategy of leveraging high-performing players to bolster their developmental ranks. This approach not only shows how high Ward's value to the team is but also reflects the Angels’ urgent need to enhance their roster for future competitiveness.

As the deadline draws closer, while initial asking prices are high, it will be interesting to see if they may become more negotiable, as the Angels look to reshape the team’s dynamics and strengthen their future prospects.

Photo Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports