The Dodgers have announced that veteran outfielder Jason Heyward has been designated for assignment. In a corresponding move, utilityman Chris Taylor has been activated.
The Dodgers expressed their appreciation for Heyward’s contributions: “Thank you, Jason, for your hard work, leadership, and everything you’ve done for the Dodgers.”
This season, Heyward posted a .208 average with six home runs and a .682 OPS in 63 games, dealing with injuries that limited his play. This followed a strong 2023 season where he hit .269 with 15 home runs and an .813 OPS after joining the Dodgers as a Minor League free agent. The decision to designate him comes two days after his pinch-hit, go-ahead three-run homer in a 6-3 win over the Mariners.
Heyward’s career, which started with a notable homer in his first MLB at-bat with the Braves in 2010, includes a .257 average with 180 home runs and a .748 OPS. He was also part of the Cubs’ 2016 World Series championship team, where he famously delivered a motivational speech during a rain delay in Game 7.