Ryan Ward 90 OVR Tips and Tricks | MLB The Show 26
Quote from ElectricEcho on May 8, 2026, 7:40 pmThe 90 OVR Ryan Ward is a must-have Topps Now card in MLB The Show 26, especially if you want a power bat against right-handed pitching. Released after his breakout April 2026 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Ward can change the game when used correctly.
Core Stats Breakdown
Hitting: Ward is a straight-up Righty Killer. His 94 Contact and 94 Power vs RHP make him a heavy threat in any lineup.
Clutch (88): Clutch is a key stat in 2026. When runners are in scoring position, this stat replaces his normal contact, making him reliable for key RBI hits.
Defense: Ward’s main position is 1B, but he can fill any outfield spot (LF/CF/RF). Keep in mind, with 55 Speed and 65 Fielding, he’s a defensive risk in the outfield.
Pro Tips & Strategies
1. Platoon Specialist:
Ward struggles against lefties (70 Contact), so pair him in a platoon. Start him vs right-handed pitchers, and keep a righty bench bat ready to sub in if your opponent brings in a lefty reliever.2. Hide Him at First Base:
To avoid letting his low speed and average fielding hurt your team, stick him at 1B. Don’t risk putting him in the outfield, especially CF, or you’ll give up extra-base hits.3. Take Advantage of Dead Red:
Ward has the Dead Red quirk, giving him a big boost against fastballs. Look for heaters early in the count to maximize his exit velocity and drive balls out of the park.4. Collection & Market Value:
Because he’s a Topps Now card, Ward is required for the April Monthly Awards Collection. Even if you don’t plan to use him long-term, keep him to unlock the Lightning Player of the Month card later.How to Get Him
- Moments: Complete the Topps Now Weekly Program (April 19–26) to earn him for free.
- Marketplace: He currently sells for roughly 4,300 – 5,200 Stubs.
With the right setup, Ryan Ward can become a key part of your Diamond Dynasty lineup. Stick to his strengths, hide his weaknesses, and he’ll deliver clutch hits all season.
The 90 OVR Ryan Ward is a must-have Topps Now card in MLB The Show 26, especially if you want a power bat against right-handed pitching. Released after his breakout April 2026 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Ward can change the game when used correctly.
Core Stats Breakdown
Hitting: Ward is a straight-up Righty Killer. His 94 Contact and 94 Power vs RHP make him a heavy threat in any lineup.
Clutch (88): Clutch is a key stat in 2026. When runners are in scoring position, this stat replaces his normal contact, making him reliable for key RBI hits.
Defense: Ward’s main position is 1B, but he can fill any outfield spot (LF/CF/RF). Keep in mind, with 55 Speed and 65 Fielding, he’s a defensive risk in the outfield.
Pro Tips & Strategies
1. Platoon Specialist:
Ward struggles against lefties (70 Contact), so pair him in a platoon. Start him vs right-handed pitchers, and keep a righty bench bat ready to sub in if your opponent brings in a lefty reliever.
2. Hide Him at First Base:
To avoid letting his low speed and average fielding hurt your team, stick him at 1B. Don’t risk putting him in the outfield, especially CF, or you’ll give up extra-base hits.
3. Take Advantage of Dead Red:
Ward has the Dead Red quirk, giving him a big boost against fastballs. Look for heaters early in the count to maximize his exit velocity and drive balls out of the park.
4. Collection & Market Value:
Because he’s a Topps Now card, Ward is required for the April Monthly Awards Collection. Even if you don’t plan to use him long-term, keep him to unlock the Lightning Player of the Month card later.
How to Get Him
- Moments: Complete the Topps Now Weekly Program (April 19–26) to earn him for free.
- Marketplace: He currently sells for roughly 4,300 – 5,200 Stubs.
With the right setup, Ryan Ward can become a key part of your Diamond Dynasty lineup. Stick to his strengths, hide his weaknesses, and he’ll deliver clutch hits all season.