Jason Heyward quickly caught on with the Houston Astros after he was released by the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The Dodgers first designated Heyward for assignment amid a roster crunch they were dealing with when Chris Taylor was ready to return from the 10-day injured list.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts called it a “very challenging” conversation to inform Heyward, but the veteran outfielder was left without a role on the club.
After Heyward cleared waivers, he was released and became a free agent before joining the Astros.
Multiple teams expressed interest in the veteran outfielder, but he opted to join Houston for the chance to play often and win, he said via Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle:
“I received a good amount of interest. The toughest part in my mind was just – not a lot of time to make a decision. Honestly, I thought there was a good chance I was going home, my family and I would go back to Chicago and see what the offseason brings. But teams did call. Houston called. And I feel like it was honestly the most realistic path for a chance to play every day. Of course I’m starting tonight in right field. I know Tuck’s out for a little bit more. Hopefully he comes back soon and doesn’t have any hiccups there with his rehab. But just a real chance to play here, be in the outfield, kind of move around in all three outfield spots. That was the conversation. And to me, I just want to make the most of that opportunity. And that’s kind of what allowed me to say, well, let’s keep playing and let’s go out here and try to win.”
Like the Dodgers, the Astros have dealt with their own injury issues during the season. They are currently without All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker, and their current starters have not provided much offense for them.
While the 2024 season has been a challenge for Heyward as he hit just .208/.289/.393 with six home runs, 25 runs scored, 28 RBI, four stolen bases and a 91 wRC+, he now represents one of the Astros most productive outfielders.
In his first game with the club, Heyward received two at-bats and drove in two runs with a single.
Jason Heyward made lasting impact with Dodgers
Heyward first joined the Dodgers prior to the 2023 season, signing a Minor League deal before he went on to have a rebound campaign and re-signing on a one-year deal.
While his time with the club came to an end sooner than expected, teh Dodgers believe he made an impact that will last for the long-term.
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