Jason Heyward, a veteran outfielder with a career rich in accolades, might not be the first name that comes to mind when discussing top free agents this offseason, but he presents an enticing opportunity for any team looking to add a seasoned player with both leadership and versatility. With a career that spans over a decade, Heyward has achieved notable milestones, including being named an All-Star in 2010, winning a World Series title with the Chicago Cubs in 2016, and earning the Wilson Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2014 while playing for the Atlanta Braves. Despite being somewhat overlooked in the current free-agent market, his resume and skill set still hold value for teams in need of a reliable veteran presence.
In the 2024 MLB season, Heyward appeared in 63 games for the Los Angeles Dodgers. His stats were solid for a player in a supplementary role, with six home runs, 28 RBIs, and a batting average of .208. However, after being designated for assignment on August 22 and released on August 26, Heyward was picked up by the Houston Astros on August 29. During his time with the Astros, he recorded 12 hits, two doubles, four home runs, and nine RBIs in 61 plate appearances. While his time in Houston was brief, it demonstrated that Heyward still possesses the ability to contribute meaningfully as a role player.
Despite once being known for his base-stealing prowess, Heyward’s stolen-base threat has diminished as he ages, with the 35-year-old’s legs no longer the weapon they once were. However, his left-handed bat, veteran presence, and solid defensive skills remain valuable assets. Heyward has always been known for his ability to get on base, drawing walks throughout his career, and this skill remains one of his strong suits. He is also capable of providing a supplementary offensive boost. Over his career, Heyward has posted seven multi-homer games, a testament to his occasional power surge. In fact, in 2023, Heyward hit .269 with 15 home runs and posted an .813 OPS, suggesting that he can still provide reliable offensive production when needed.
Jason Heyward: An Underappreciated Free Agent Option
Although Heyward’s best years may be behind him, his experience and ability to contribute in a variety of roles make him a potentially invaluable addition to any roster. As a player who can serve as a platoon outfielder, a backup, or even a pinch hitter, Heyward has the potential to provide substantial value to a team in need of depth. His defensive ability in the outfield, particularly his ability to cover ground and his experience in high-pressure situations, could be an asset to teams aiming for playoff contention. Furthermore, his experience with multiple teams and success in different roles throughout his career positions him as a leader in the clubhouse, able to mentor younger players while contributing on the field.
With an enduring commitment to his craft, Heyward can still be a stabilizing force for a team looking to add a reliable veteran presence. Whether in a starting role or a more situational capacity, Heyward’s experience, versatility, and leadership are qualities that should not be overlooked by teams in need of a player with both offensive and defensive contributions.
Possible Suitors for Jason Heyward
Atlanta Braves: A potential reunion with the Atlanta Braves, the team where Heyward began his career in 2010, could make a lot of sense for both the player and the franchise. Heyward’s familiarity with the Braves’ system, combined with his history with the team, could make him a seamless fit. The Braves could benefit from his solid defense in the outfield, a position where he has consistently excelled over the years. Heyward’s rookie season in 2010 was memorable as he finished second in the NL Rookie of the Year voting, and during his tenure with Atlanta, he amassed a .262 batting average, 84 home runs, 644 hits, and 292 RBIs in 681 games. A reunion could provide Heyward with the opportunity to contribute to a championship-caliber team once again, offering the Braves both leadership and depth as they continue their pursuit of postseason success.
Heyward’s experience as a mentor for younger players would also be invaluable to a Braves squad that blends veterans with emerging stars. His ability to provide both offense and defense in a platoon or backup role could make him an ideal candidate for the Braves, giving them flexibility while bolstering their outfield depth.
Los Angeles Angels: The Los Angeles Angels are another team that could be a good fit for Heyward this offseason. Already active in the market, having signed starting pitcher Yusei Kikuchi and catcher Travis d’Arnaud, the Angels are looking to build a more competitive roster. As part of their rebuilding efforts, adding a veteran presence like Heyward could provide both stability and depth to their outfield. Heyward’s experience in high-leverage situations and ability to contribute in various roles could be just what the Angels need as they aim to improve their chances for contention in the coming seasons.
With Mike Trout slated to return in 2025, the Angels could benefit from another veteran outfielder to provide insurance in case of any setbacks with Trout’s health. Additionally, Heyward’s ability to succeed as a pinch hitter—he has a career .271 average with three home runs in 70 pinch-hit at-bats—could be a valuable asset to the Angels, especially in close games where a veteran presence in the lineup would be crucial.
Heyward’s veteran leadership, combined with his ability to contribute as a role player and occasional starter, would be a low-risk signing for a team looking to build a competitive roster without overcommitting to a player on the decline. His 15 years of experience in the majors make him a player who can step into any clubhouse and immediately contribute to both the on-field product and the team’s culture.
A Reliable Veteran Presence
Jason Heyward might not be the marquee name that grabs headlines this offseason, but his experience, defensive ability, and offensive contributions make him an underrated free-agent option. Whether it’s a reunion with the Braves, a new chapter with the Angels, or another team seeking a reliable veteran presence, Heyward can still provide substantial value as both a player and a mentor. His diverse skill set, leadership qualities, and ability to contribute in multiple roles give him the potential to help a team in various capacities. In a market where experience is often undervalued, Heyward is a player who could make a significant impact, providing both depth and stability to any outfield. Teams looking for a player who has a track record of success in different facets of the game would do well to consider bringing Heyward into their fold this offseason.