Veteran outfielder Jason Heyward has found a new home with the Houston Astros after an unexpected release from the Los Angeles Dodgers. The 35-year-old, who has had a long and storied MLB career, recently opened up about his feelings regarding the surprising move.
Speaking to the Houston media on Thursday ahead of his debut with the Astros, Heyward candidly admitted that he thought his season was over when the Dodgers cut him loose. The veteran seemed genuinely surprised by the interest he received from other teams following his release.
“Honestly, I thought there was a good chance I was going home, my family and I would go back to Chicago and see what the offseason brings,” Heyward shared. “But teams did call. Houston called. And I feel like it was honestly the most realistic path for a chance to play every day. … That’s kind of what allowed me to say, well, let’s keep playing and let’s go out here and try to win.”
Heyward’s comments suggest that he was looking for a situation where he could continue to play regularly, and he was even prepared to sit out the rest of the season if the right opportunity didn’t arise. Fortunately for him, the Astros offered him that chance, and with the team likely headed to the playoffs, the move seems to have worked out well.
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While Heyward’s numbers with the Dodgers weren’t stellar—he hit just .208 with six home runs in 173 at-bats—his release was still surprising to many. If the Astros manage his playing time effectively, Heyward could still be a valuable asset as they push for a postseason run.
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