Daryle

Ward

Ward will be reevaluated today. He’s been a big disappointment as the Dodgers’ top lefty pinch-hitter this season, with a 436 OPS and no home runs in 54 at-bats. Righty Mike Kinkade, meanwhile, has a 1023 OPS in 38 at-bats. Manager Jim Tracy should be able to figure out that sometimes playing the percentages isn’t playing the percentages.

Ward didn’t get into the game and remains day-to-day.

“It’s the only thing I could do,” he said. “I have to get my at-bats.” Ward had said he was planning to return home to California.

Ward said he planned to return home to California, which would lead to a suspension.

Ward could surprise in 2004 if given a chance to play regularly. However, he doesn’t have the swing to be an effective part-time player and it wouldn’t be a good idea to play him over Craig Wilson. The Pirates could conceivably start both, but it’s likely that they’ll pick up a veteran for either first base or right field, leaving just one open spot.

Ward is on the DL with tendinitis in his right wrist. He’ll rejoin the Dodgers early next week.

Ward could be close to returning from his rehab assignment. He should take over at first base for the Pirates immediately.

The Pirates put him on a strength and conditioning program at mini-camp in January, but it looks like they should have gotten to him earlier. Ward, like J.J. Davis and Ruben Mateo, is going to have a difficult time making the Pirates after the team’s recent moves. he can reject an assignment to the minors and become a free agent if he doesn’t earn a roster spot.

Ward could still require surgery, and isn’t likely to be back this month.

Ward has hit batting practice with no complications the last three days, so he shouldn’t spend much time at Nashville before reclaiming first base in Pittsburgh.