Jason Heyward was drafted by the Atlanta Braves and enjoyed plenty of successful seasons with the franchise, but it was with the Chicago Cubs that the veteran outfielder won a World Series.
Heyward played a memorable part of the 2016 Cubs roster that ended the organization’s championship drought, but his time in Chicago otherwise was a bag of mixed results. Heyward’s decline in production led to getting released by the Cubs last season despite owing him $22 million in the final season of an eight-year, $184 million contract signed in December 2015.
Heyward went on to sign a Minor League contract with the Dodgers and earned a spot on their Opening Day roster. He faced his former Cubs teammates last week, but now is back at Wrigley Field for the first time.
It’s an experience Heyward has thoroughly enjoyed and the memories with playing the Cubs in Chicago, via SportsNet LA:
“It’s always fun to come to Wrigley. It’s a baseball spot, it’s historic. Good to see it. The only thing I wish we would see is the ivy in, but I know that’s like a couple months away. Still good to be here… It feels normal. Like I said, it’s been a pleasure to be able to do it here for seven years.
“Coming back to Wrigley, I will say it’s different walking in the visitors’ clubhouse. The last time I did that, it was 2015, and it looks completely different. And I mean that in the best way possible. They did a great job with that. It’s cool to be playing baseball here again.”
Coming off a down season, Heyward quickly went to with Dodgers hitting coaches in an effort to revitalize his career amid significant swing changes. The results haven’t necessarily been there, but Heyward remains encouraged by the ongoing work.
As for playing against the Cubs, Heyward appeared off the bench in the first two games of the series before making a start Saturday. He’s 0-for-5 with two runs scored and two walks thus far.
Jason Heyward grateful to address Cubs & Dodgers on Jackie Robinson Day
Heyward was intertwined on multiple levels with the Dodgers gathering at the Jackie Robinson statue in the center field plaza of Dodger Stadium for a third consecutive Jackie Robinson Day.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts began the tradition in 2021 and this season the Chicago Cubs participated. Heyward spoke to his former and current teammates about the impact Robinson had on his life.
“Amazing opportunity,” Heyward said after delivering his powerful message. “I feel like timing is everything, for all of us in every walk of life. Super cool, 14-year Major Leaguer, to have a chance to address everyone that came out here wanting to show support, pay homage and acknowledge Jackie Robinson Day.”
Heyward and Robinson were both born in Georgia, and the veteran outfielder was committed to attend UCLA, where the Dodgers icon starred after attending Muir High School in Pasadena.
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