One year ago, Jason Heyward and the Los Angeles Dodgers entered a Minor League deal with an invitation to Spring Training. For Heyward, it was an opportunity to prove that he could still play at a high level. For the Dodgers, it was a no-brainer low-risk, high-reward move.
The contract turned out to be immensely lucrative for both parties. Heyward experienced a resurgent season at the plate and quickly became one of the leaders inside the clubhouse. In the end, it was a perfect match.
So perfect, that Heyward and the Dodgers will run it back in 2024, as the two sides agreed to keep the veteran outfielder in Los Angeles on a one-year, $9 million deal, sources told MLB.com. The deal is pending a physical and the club has not confirmed the agreement.
After an underwhelming end to his time with the Chicago Cubs, Heyward was not sure if he would get another shot in the Majors. Once he signed with the Dodgers, Heyward travelled to Los Angeles and worked out at Dodger Stadium alongside Freddie Freeman in hopes of reviving his career in ‘23.
With some significant swing changes, Heyward was able to awaken his career, hitting 15 home runs and posting a .813 OPS, his best in a full 162-game season since ‘12 with the Braves.
Besides his production on the field, Heyward also helped fill the void in the clubhouse. Entering into the season the Dodgers were looking for veteran leadership with Justin Turner who is no longer with the team. The responsibility fell to Heyward to become a solid voice for young players, particularly outfielder James Outman.
Heyward was going to have the choice to play for some teams this winter, but the familiarity with the hitting coaches and Freeman played a significant role in his choice to go back to Los Angeles. For the Dodgers, bringing him back fills one of the voids in the outfield.
Los Angeles entered the offseason needing to address the corner outfields. With Heyward, they can strengthen the right field. Mookie Betts, who has been outspoken about his preference of playing more infield moving forward, will now get the chance to play more second base, just like he did in ‘23.
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