The Los Angeles Dodgers are moving on from fan favorite and former All-Star Jason Heyward in a surprise move.
On Thursday, the Dodgers announced on X/Twitter that they have activated utility man Chris Taylor and designed Jason Heyward for assignment. This all but ends Heyward’s tenure with the NL West leaders.
As noted by Bob Nightengale of USA Today Sports, Heyward is unlikely to be claimed from waivers due to his $9 million salary. As such, the five-time Gold Glover will likely head to free agency.
Taylor was on the injured list recovering from a left groin strain. His return meant someone had to be removed from the Dodgers’ logjam of outfielders, and that meant bidding farewell to the well-respected veteran.
You really can’t ask for a greater final at-bat with a team
Thank you, Jason Heyward 🫡 pic.twitter.com/F7CfsSF8JC
— Blake Harris (@BlakeHHarris) August 22, 2024
Jason Heyward joined the Dodgers in 2023 after seven years with the Chicago Cubs and put together a superb bounce-back season. The 2016 World Series champion hit .269 with 15 homes and an .813 OPS, the fourth-best mark of his career.
But the 35-year-old came back to earth in 2024, hitting just .208 with six homers, 28 RBI and a .682 OPS. This season marks the third time in four years that Heyward’s OPS was below .700, a clear-cut reminder that his best days are well behind him.
For his career, Heyward is batting .257 with 180 homers, 709 RBI and a .748 OPS.
Jason Heyward Could Be A Worthy Pickup For Playoff Teams
Though Heyward’s bat leaves a lot to be desired, he remains a quality defensive fielder and a beloved locker room leader. Cubs fans know the story about his inspirational speech during the rain delay in Game 7 of the 2016 World Series that willed Chicago to its first championship in 108 years.
Heyward’s defense, leadership and big-game experience would make him a quality addition for playoff-bound teams. With Heyward likely to hit free agency, he’d come at a cheap cost.
