Jason Heyward’s Future with the Los Angeles Dodgers in Doubt

The Los Angeles Dodgers have designated veteran outfielder Jason Heyward for assignment, opening up a spot on the roster for utility man Chris Taylor. The move comes after Mookie Betts returned to the lineup and moved to right field, making it difficult for Heyward to find consistent playing time.

Heyward, 35, has played two seasons with the Dodgers, but his performance this year has been underwhelming. He has batted just.208 with a.682 OPS, 10 doubles, six home runs, and 28 RBIs. Despite his strong defense in right field, the Dodgers have other players who can play in center, making his position flexibility limited.

Heyward’s future with the team is now uncertain. He will likely clear waivers, and as a 15-year veteran, he may refuse assignment to the minor leagues and become a free agent. It’s possible that he could go to the minors and be a September call-up when rosters can expand to 28 players, but a player of his stature may not want to take that route.

If Heyward’s career as a major leaguer is indeed over, he finishes with a.257 average,.748 OPS, 302 doubles, 180 home runs, and 709 RBIs in 15 seasons. He won a World Series championship with the Chicago Cubs in 2016, becoming a beloved leader and legendary figure with his motivating speech to the team during a rain delay in Game 7.

Heyward’s departure from the Dodgers marks the end of an era for the team, but it also opens up opportunities for younger players to step up and contribute to the team’s success.