The Los Angeles Dodgers officially called up long-time prospect Ryan Ward on Sunday, sending first baseman Freddie Freeman to the paternity list.

The Dodgers drafted Ward, 28, in 2019, and he has spent the entirety of his career within the Dodgers’ organization. The slugger has been fantastic over the past several years, but hasn’t yet made his MLB debut due to the Dodgers’ stacked roster.

He has been one of the best hitters anywhere in MiLB over the past two seasons, hitting 70 homers and driving in 226 runs during that period.

Ward is off to another good start in 2026, posting a 1.020 OPS through 18 games with four homers and 14 RBIs.

Why Did the Dodgers Promote Ward?

After his blistering season in 2025, the Dodgers added Ward to their 40-man roster, and kept him on the roster into the regular season. While he didn’t break camp with the Dodgers, Ward spent most of spring training with the team and remained in a good mindset while the team ramped up for the regular season in Arizona.

“To me it’s like, ‘Okay, you’re going to get your opportunity, you better be ready.’ So [I’m] really taking advantage of all this time and getting myself into the best spot possible to earn that opportunity,” Ward said.

“…I love the sport, I appreciate it more than anything. But I’m trying to control what I can control … keep your feet where they are, focus on what’s at hand.”

As he’s on the 40-man roster and is the only other other first baseman on said roster, it’s no wonder the Dodgers called Ward over anyone else.

Previously an outfielder, Ward has spent 11 of his 18 games with Triple-A Oklahoma City at first base this season.

Will Ryan Ward Start on Sunday?

Ward will make his MLB debut Sunday, as the Dodgers have him slated to start against the Colorado Rockies for the third game of their four-game series at Coors Field.

He will play first base and bat seventh as he looks to take advantage of the hitter friendly park and make an impact with the MLB squad. The Dodgers lost the second game of the series, and will look to regain the series lead with a win Sunday.

LA’s third game against the Colorado Rockies comes Sunday at 12:10 p.m. PT.

Are you excited to finally see Ryan Ward with the Dodgers?