On Wednesday night, Dodger Stadium had a surge of electricity in the late innings of the Los Angeles Dodgers final game versus the Seattle Mariners. The game was tied 3-3 going into the bottom of the eighth inning when Jason Heyward got called to the plate. On a 2-1 count, one swing changed the course of the game. With two runners on base, Heyward launched a missile to deep right field.
As the scoreboard was changed to 6-3, not a single person was sitting. The energy was palpable while the Dodgers dugout and fans alike celebrated the go-ahead home run. During the moment, no one knew that one of Heyward’s most memorable moments in Dodger Blue would be his last. The Los Angeles Dodgers announced on Thursday that Heyward had been designated for assignment.
The Dodgers’ Shocking Move
The decision to designate Heyward for assignment came as a big shock to many. Chris Taylor was activated off the injured list on Thursday. To make room for him on the active roster, a move had to be made. With an outfield crowded with talent, it was an embarrassment of riches for Los Angeles as they were faced with the tough decision to say goodbye to one of their talented players.
The decision was made bearing Taylor and Kevin Kiermaier in mind. Taylor, being the super utility player he is, can make an impact anywhere in the field which is imperative to the success of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The recent acquisition of Kiermaier has been fruitful for Los Angeles. Since playing for the Dodgers from the beginning of August, he has posted his best numbers of the season. He is slashing .243/.282/.405, making him a viable asset to the team.
Though Heyward has made an impact on the Los Angeles Dodgers in more ways than one, he is batting .208 with an OBP of .289 while slugging .393 in 63 games. The seasoned veteran will most likely be claimed off waivers by another team in the coming week. If not, he will become a free agent.
Heyward’s Impact On The Los Angeles Dodgers
Heyward has been with the Los Angeles Dodgers for two seasons. Within those two years, his impact on the team has been unparalleled. Between his performance, leadership on the field, and presence in the clubhouse, he has become a favorite among the fans and his fellow teammates.
In 2023, Heyward played in 124 games. He had a batting average of .269 and an on-base percentage of .340. This year, he has played in half that number of games, sitting at just 63 appearances. In his 173 at-bats, he has garnered 28 RBI and 36 strikeouts.
Overall, Heyward has had a very successful 15-year career. He made his debut in 2010 with the Atlanta Braves. He spent five seasons there before spending one season with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2015. He found his home for the next seven years in Chicago with the Cubs, first joining the club in 2016. He notably helped push the Cubs to their first World Series win in 108 years.
Future For The Dodgers
Heyward’s timely hit this week against the Mariners helped propel the Los Angeles Dodgers into a vital series sweep. With the divisional race heating up, each Dodger loss puts their opponents closer in reach of the division lead. The internal battle for roster spots has propelled a stronger sense of intensity for some players, driving Los Angeles to more victories as of late.
Though battling with an injury-ridden team, the Los Angeles Dodgers now have the majority of their players back from the injured list. They hope this stacked lineup will lead them to triumph and extend their narrow lead in the division. With their recent win, the Diamondbacks are now four games back of the Dodgers while the Padres are 4.5 back. The Los Angeles Dodgers aim to extend their lead as they face the Tampa Bay Rays tonight.
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