Just one day after being released by the Los Angeles Dodgers, Jason Heyward has found a new home as he’s signed with the Houston Astros, according to ESPNs’ Kiley McDaniel.
The Astros are currently without Kyle Tucker, who is on the 60-day injured list, so Heyward provides them with another option in a group that’s lacking talent.
The Astors have been relying on an outfield that consists of Chas McCormick, Jake Meyers, Ben Gamel and Mauricio Dubón. Heyward should be able to step in and provide them with an upgrade against right-handed pitching.
Heyward was first designated for assignment when the Dodgers activated Chris Taylor off the 10-day injured list.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts called it a “very challenging” conversation to inform Heyward, but the club faced a roster crunch with Heyward as the odd man out.
“It was one of those things where the versatility that we have on the roster, Mookie going out to right field, any conversation that we would’ve had with anyone on our roster right now would’ve been extremely difficult,” Roberts said.
“Unfortunately, it had to be Jason. I’m forever grateful and I know the guys are. Probably one of the tougher things I’ve ever had to do.”
Heyward first joined the Dodgers before the 2023 season on a Minor League deal and made their Opening Day roster.
He put together a solid season and the Dodgers rewarded him with a one-year, $9 million contract for this season.
However, the year proved to be a constant struggle for the 35-year-old, who hit .208/.289/.393 with six home runs, 25 runs scored, 28 RBI, four stolen bases and a 91 wRC+.
Heyward batted .249/.322/.446 with 33 doubles, 21 home runs, 68 RBI, 81 runs scored and a 110 wRC+ in 187 games over parts of two seasons with the Dodgers.
Jason Heyward made long-term impact on Dodgers
While Heyward won’t impact the Dodgers anymore with his bat or glove, Roberts believes he made a lasting imprint on the organization.
“What Jason did for the Dodgers in a year in a half was pretty remarkable; on the field, in the clubhouse, in the community. His fingerprint will be everlasting, in my opinion. Very difficult decision,” Roberts said.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
