UPDATE (Aug. 27, 11:45 a.m. PT): The Houston Astros reportedly signed Jason Heyward after he was released by the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Heyward’s deal should be finalized before Sept. 1, and that would make him postseason-eligible with the Astros.
The Los Angeles Dodgers released Jason Heyward from the organization after he cleared waivers, per the team’s transactions log. Heyward is now a free agent and able to sign with any team.
Heyward went unclaimed on waivers upon being designated for assignment last week. That came as the corresponding roster move to the Dodgers activating Chris Taylor off the 10-day injured list.
“Very challenging,” manager Dave Roberts said of his conversation to inform Heyward of the Dodgers’ decision.
“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. It was a roster crunch. Guys finally came back to health, and we only have so much room.
“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. 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 initially joined the Dodgers organization before the 2023 season on a Minor League deal. He made their Opening Day roster and put together a resurgent season.
The Dodgers rewarded Heyward by re-signing him to a one-year, $9 million contract for this season. But the 35-year-old failed to duplicate last season’s success and dealt with multiple injuries.
Heyward batted .249/.322/.446 with 33 doubles, 21 home runs and 68 RBI in 187 games over parts of two seasons with the Dodgers.
Further proof of how much the Dodgers clubhouse valued Heyward was voting him the winner of the 18th annual Roy Campanella Award last season. It’s given each year to one player from the team who best exemplifies the spirit and leadership of the late Hall of Fame catcher.
Heyward joined Rafael Furcal (2006), Jamey Carroll (2010) and Freddie Freeman (2022) as the only first-year Dodgers to receive the honor.
Is Jason Heyward eligible for postseason?
Yes, should Heyward sign with a team team by Sept. 1, he would remain eligible to play in the postseason this year.
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