Astros Five-Time Gold Glover a Free Agent Worthy of Targeting.
Although less talked about than other names, Houston Astros outfielder Jason Heyward is now a free agent that a team could benefit from snagging this offseason. Heyward was an All-Star in 2010, won a World Series in 2016 with the Chicago Cubs, and won the Wilson Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2014 for the NL when he was with the Atlanta Braves. Heyward played 63 games for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024, going yard six times with 28 RBI and batting .208. The Dodgers designated him for assignment on August 22nd and he was then released on August 26th. Heyward then signed with the Astros on August 29th. With the Astros, he recorded 12 hits, two doubles, four home runs, and nine RBI across 61 plate appearances.
Pretty wild Jason Heyward may be the player to power Houston to the AL West crown.
Rookie of the Year with the Braves. World Series hero with the Cubs. Quite the career resurgence with the Astros.pic.twitter.com/CIYFrseCOv
— Michael Shapiro (@mshap2) September 25, 2024
Heyward used to be a base stealing threat but that skillset has since thinned out for the 35-year-old. But Heyward is a left-handed bat and veteran who could provide value in the outfield with his defense. He has also been known for his ability to draw walks throughout his career. For his career, Heyward has seven multi-homer games. He can still provide supplemental offense. Back in 2023, Heyward hit .269 with 15 home runs and a .813 OPS.
Jason Heyward an Underrated Free Agent Option Thanks to Experience
Possible Suitors for Heyward
Atlanta Braves.
The Braves would be a familiar landing spot for Heyward as he made his MLB debut in Atlanta in 2010. Heyward would fit well with the Braves, as he could provide them with solid defense in the outfield. Heyward had a strong rookie campaign in 2010, finishing second in the NL Rookie of the Year voting. A reunion with the Braves would be interesting as he sported a .262 batting average with 84 home runs, 644 hits, and 292 RBIs across 681 games in his career with them. Heyward is multifaceted in that he can provide value through both his offense and defense as a platoon/backup.
Los Angeles Angels
The Angels have been busy early this offseason signing starting pitcher Yusei Kikuchi and catcher Travis d’Arnaud. They have been on the radar for signing more players and Heyward would be a low-risk signing for a team looking to rebuild. In 2025, the Angels will get Mike Trout back, but having another veteran outfielder would benefit the Angels, especially if Trout has any setbacks. Heyward is a 15-year MLB veteran who has also proven to be successful as a pinch hitter, going 19-for-70 (. 271) with three home runs.
