Jason Heyward Signs 1-Year, $9 Million Contract to Return to the Dodgers, Reports Say

Reports indicate that Jason Heyward, after a resurgent 2023 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, has decided to re-sign with the team for 2024. Heyward reportedly inked a one-year, $9 million deal to stay with the Dodgers for another season, as per Kiley McDaniel of ESPN.

Last year, Los Angeles proved to be a favorable environment for Heyward. The seasoned player achieved a batting average of .269, an on-base percentage of .340, a slugging percentage of .473, and hit 15 home runs over 377 plate appearances. This marked his most impressive offensive performance since 2020 and the first time since 2012 that he slugged over .470.

The Dodgers maximized Heyward’s strengths by utilizing him in a platoon role and showcasing his defensive prowess. In 2023, Heyward only had 28 plate appearances against left-handed pitchers, hitting .192 in those situations. He also played at every outfield position, with the majority of his innings in right field.

At 34 years old, Heyward is likely to assume a similar role in the 2024 season, considering the Dodgers’ roster, which includes Mookie Betts, James Outman, and Chris Taylor, all capable of playing in the outfield, with Betts and Taylor also offering versatility in other positions. The team’s recent focus on depth suggests they may add another outfielder in the offseason to split playing time with Heyward.

Following yet another disappointing postseason exit, despite winning 100 games in the 2023 regular season, the Dodgers are determined to bolster their talent. With World Series aspirations, Heyward, though not a flashy signing at this stage of his career, is expected to be a significant contributor as long as he maintains his late-career resurgence at the plate.

Considering he was written off in 2021, Heyward’s return to the Dodgers in 2024 presents a positive outlook for the veteran player.