Among a relatively modest approach the Los Angeles Dodgers took in free agency last offseason was signing Jason Heyward to a Minor League contract.
The veteran outfielder was coming off a disappointing showing with the Chicago Cubs that ended with being released despite still being under contract. Freddie Freeman urged the Dodgers front office to consider Heyward, and it wound up being the impetus behind his signing.
Heyward joined the Dodgers with a willingness to make adjustments and played his way onto their Opening Day roster. He remained with the team throughout the entire season and earned consistent praise from teammates and the coaching staff.
Heyward was among the group of Dodgers free agents this winter, but has re-signed with the team on a one-year, $9 million contract, according to ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel:
Free agent OF Jason Heyward is nearing a one year deal with the Dodgers, per source.
— Kiley McDaniel (@kileymcd) November 27, 2023
Heyward's one year deal with the Dodgers is for $9 million, pending physical, per source.
— Kiley McDaniel (@kileymcd) November 27, 2023
Heyward re-signing with the Dodgers was considered a likely outcome when taking into account his close friendship with Freeman and how the 2023 season went. Earlier in the offseason it was reported mutual interest existed between Heyward and the Dodgers.
Heyward appeared in 124 games (98 starts — all against right-handed pitching) and hit .269/.340/.473 with 23 doubles, 15 home runs and 40 RBI.
Along with the on-field production, Heyward emerged as a leader in the Dodgers clubhouse and was voted the winner of the 2023 Roy Campanella Award, which is given each year to one player from the team who best exemplifies the spirit and leadership of the late Hall of Fame catcher.
What Dodgers re-signing Jason Heyward means for Mookie Betts
With Heyward back in the fold, he presumably will continue to be part of a strict platoon that in turn allows the Dodgers to move Mookie Betts to second base.
That flexibility is viewed by the team as a means of taking some physical burden off Betts and keeping him more engaged.
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