Orioles likely to keep Taylor Ward amid trade interest from Phillies, Braves

The Baltimore Orioles, currently 49-52 and 9.0 games back in the AL East, are at a crossroads as the August 3 trade deadline approaches. USA Today’s Bob Nightengale predicts the Orioles will retain outfielder Taylor Ward, who has a.748 OPS this season, despite interest from teams like the Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves. Ward's high walk count and moderate offensive production make him a valuable asset. While Orioles' fans may welcome this prediction, it raises concerns for rival teams seeking offensive boosts. The Orioles had recently ended a seven-game winning streak but lost to the Boston Red Sox on Monday night, contributing to their uncertain trade stance.

• 8:36 PMYahoo Sports — Orioles trade prediction with .748 OPS outfielder would be bad for Phillies, Braves