The Major League Baseball offseason — often called the “hot stove” period — has officially begun, and as always, it is bringing a wave of speculation and early storylines. Even though free agency does not formally open until later this week, discussions, leaks, and rumors are already circulating throughout the league. Teams are evaluating their latest season, determining their priorities, and exploring all possible avenues to improve before spring training arrives.
For the Los Angeles Angels, the end of the 2025 season signaled another chapter of frustration. They closed the year with a record of 72 wins and 90 losses, placing them at the very bottom of the American League West standings. The Angels have struggled to gain momentum in recent seasons, and despite moments of promise from different players, the team never found a consistent rhythm. Their finish at the bottom of the division once again fueled conversations about the club needing a significant roster shake-up.
During the final days leading up to the trade deadline in July, MLB insiders reported that the Angels were actively exploring potential deals for outfielders Jo Adell and Taylor Ward. Both were considered intriguing trade chips — Adell because of his former top-prospect status and raw athletic ceiling, and Ward because of his proven offensive production and experience. Many around the league thought that Los Angeles might move at least one of them to bring in long-term pitching depth or prospects. Despite the rumors, neither player was ultimately traded, and the Angels decided to carry both through the remainder of the season.
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But with the offseason now in full swing, those discussions have resurfaced. MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi recently reported that the Angels are once again open to hearing offers on Adell and Ward.
This does not guarantee that a trade will happen, but it signals that the front office is willing to consider significant roster changes rather than committing to the same core group that produced another disappointing finish. Listening to offers gives the club flexibility — if another team is willing to part with pitching or high-upside minor league talent, the Angels may be motivated to act.
In short, the Angels are entering the winter with key decisions ahead, and the futures of Jo Adell and Taylor Ward are very much part of those conversations.
Will the Angels trade Jo Adell and Taylor Ward?
The Los Angeles Angels appear to be at a crossroads, and trading away their top hitters could be the most logical path forward. After wrapping up the season in last place within their division, it has become increasingly clear that the franchise needs a significant reset. Whether it’s labeled a rebuild, a restructuring, or a long-term retooling effort, major organizational change seems inevitable. With that in mind, moving some of their most valuable players before they reach free agency may be the smartest way to kickstart that process.
Taylor Ward has developed into one of the most productive offensive outfielders in the majors. During this most recent season, he delivered elite power and run production, launching 36 home runs and driving in 103 runs. Those numbers placed him among the better hitters across the league, proving that he is capable of anchoring the middle of any lineup.
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Ward also remains relatively affordable for one more year, as he is still under team control and won’t reach free agency until after next season. Because of that, his trade value is extremely high — teams acquiring him would get an impact bat without having to commit immediately to a long-term contract.
Meanwhile, Jo Adell finally produced the breakout campaign that the organization had been waiting for since he was one of their top prospects. Over the course of 152 games, Adell put together a season that firmly established him as a legitimate big-league slugger. He drilled 37 home runs, collected 98 RBIs, and posted an OPS+ of 111, meaning he performed noticeably better than an average MLB hitter. With his combination of youth, athleticism, and raw power, Adell still has untapped potential and multiple years of team control remaining. For other clubs, he could be the exact type of player worth investing in — someone who can impact games immediately while still offering room to grow.
Any team looking to boost their lineup with a middle-of-the-order threat would be thrilled to add either Ward or Adell. Both players can handle everyday roles in the outfield, and both have the offensive firepower to significantly change the dynamics of a team’s batting order. Their production would especially appeal to contending teams that need more slugging from their outfield group.
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One team that fits that description is the Philadelphia Phillies. Entering the offseason, the Phillies face uncertainty in their outfield. Harrison Bader and Nick Castellanos could both depart, leaving large gaps to fill defensively and offensively. Even if Philadelphia manages to keep one of them, the current configuration lacks a true middle-order power bat in the outfield. For a club that expects to contend again, acquiring Ward or Adell would inject the type of run-producing talent that can alter a playoff push. The Phillies already have a strong offensive foundation, but adding another big bat could push them over the top.
Beyond Philadelphia, several other teams could emerge as strong trade partners. The New York Mets are expected to be active this offseason and have been vocal about improving their lineup. The San Francisco Giants have struggled to generate consistent power in recent seasons, making either Angels outfielder a great fit. The Cleveland Guardians could also be in the mix, as they continue searching for power to balance out their contact-oriented offense. Each of these organizations could justify giving up prospect capital to acquire a high-impact outfielder.
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For the Angels, trading Ward and Adell might be difficult from a sentimental standpoint, but the overall logic is unavoidable. Dealing productive players while their value is at its peak could return young talent, replenish a farm system, and accelerate the transition toward the franchise’s next competitive window. In the big picture, moving their star outfielders might be the most effective way to begin reshaping the team’s future.
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