BRIAN WARD vs. LOS ANGELES DODGERS, BALTIMORE ORIOLES, ACE AMERICAN INSURANCE
The applicant, Brian Ward, a former professional athlete, sought reconsideration of a WCJ's January 20, 2022 Findings and Order that found no subject matter jurisdiction over his claim. Ward, a California resident, argued his contract was made in California despite never playing or training in the state. The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) granted the petition for reconsideration, concluding there was insufficient evidence to support the WCJ's initial decision without further development of the record. The WCAB also applied equitable tolling due to administrative delays and deferred a final decision pending a complete review of the merits.