Los Angeles witnessed an emotional farewell moment today as one of the players once highly regarded within the Dodgers organization officially entered a new chapter of his career.
After the team’s decision to move him to the Chunichi Dragons in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league, the former power hitter sent a message of appreciation to the organization that gave him his first opportunity.
That player is Ryan Ward, who was once considered one of the most promising slugger prospects in the Los Angeles Dodgers development system.
Not a star who received immediate attention when he entered professional baseball, he built his reputation through perseverance, power at the plate, and a long journey through every level of the Minor Leagues.
For many years, he became one of the most notable names in the Dodgers system thanks to his ability to produce important home runs and his consistency as a power hitter.
His journey in Los Angeles was not measured only by his MLB appearances, but also by the years of dedication spent waiting for his opportunity on the biggest stage.
Before leaving the Dodgers, he had accumulated more than 800 professional games, highlighted by his achievements in the Minor Leagues.
Across 784 Minor League games, he recorded 168 home runs, 588 runs, and hundreds of RBIs, becoming one of the most notable power hitters in the Dodgers’ development system.
When he received an opportunity in MLB, he appeared in 20 games with the Dodgers, posting a .218 batting average, hitting 3 home runs, and recording 12 RBIs in 55 plate appearances.
Although his time with the major league club was not long, he still left an impression because of his power ability and professional approach to the game.
The decision to part ways with the Dodgers came after the team terminated his contract and allowed him to join the Chunichi Dragons in Japan.
This was viewed as an opportunity for him to receive more playing time, continue developing himself, and search for a new chapter in his professional baseball career.
Immediately after the announcement, he sent an emotional message of gratitude to Los Angeles fans and the Dodgers organization.
"I want to thank the Dodgers for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to chase my MLB dream. Although my journey in Los Angeles has come to an end, this place will always have a special place in my heart. I will always be proud to have once been a part of the Dodgers."
His departure is not only a roster change, but also marks the end of a long journey built through years of development and waiting for an opportunity.
For the Dodgers, this is a decision to create a new direction for the roster, while for him, Japan opens the door to another opportunity to prove his value.
Ryan Ward leaves Los Angeles with memories of an organization that helped him grow from a promising talent into a professional baseball player.
And even while wearing a new uniform in the future, his connection to the Dodgers and the Los Angeles fans will always remain an unforgettable part of his career.
