Overview
- The Dodgers sold Ryan Ward’s contract to the Chunichi Dragons, a move reported Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026, after he cleared waivers following his designation for assignment around Sept. 16.
- Ward appeared in 20 major-league games in 2026, hitting .218 with three home runs and 12 RBIs in about 60 plate appearances.
- He arrives in Japan with a strong Triple-A résumé, including the Pacific Coast League MVP in 2025 after a 36-home-run season and a .937 OPS that year.
- Los Angeles moved him to open a 40-man spot as a result of roster depth and limited playing time for Ward, while Chunichi’s purchase looks aimed at securing him for coming seasons rather than immediate postseason help.
- The transfer required Ward’s agreement, and he is expected to use regular at-bats in NPB as a chance to rebuild his value and possibly return to MLB in the future.