What Happened To Jason Heyward? Explained

Jason Heyward was designated for assignment (DFA) by the Los Angeles Dodgers despite his recent strong performance, including a crucial pinch-hit, go-ahead three-run homer in his last game.

The decision to DFA a player typically means the team has chosen to remove him from the 40-man roster, often to make room for another player or to reassign roles within the team.

This move can lead to the player being traded, released, or sent to the minors if he clears waivers.

Although Heyward had a solid season and contributed positively to the team, the Dodgers may have made this decision due to roster management strategies or to give opportunities to other players.

It’s worth noting that Heyward joined the Dodgers in 2022 after a seven-year tenure with the Chicago Cubs, where he was known for his defensive prowess and leadership, despite some struggles with offensive consistency.

What Happened To Jason Heyward?

The Los Angeles Dodgers have designated Jason Heyward for assignment (DFA), which effectively removes him from their roster.

This move means that Heyward is no longer on the team’s 40-man roster and could be traded, released, or, if he clears waivers, sent to the minors.

The decision to DFA a player often reflects a need for roster flexibility or a shift in team strategy, even if the player has been performing well, as in Heyward’s case.

Despite this surprising move, Heyward’s experience and skill set may attract interest from other teams looking to bolster their outfield depth.

Jason Heyward, a five-time Gold Glove winner, was designated for assignment by the Los Angeles Dodgers to make room for utility player Chris Taylor.

After joining the Dodgers in 2022, Heyward experienced a resurgence in 2023, hitting .269 with 15 home runs and an .813 OPS.

However, his performance dipped in 2024, where he posted a .208 batting average with six home runs and a .682 OPS.

Injuries impacted his season, leading to his DFA and leaving his future in MLB uncertain.

Meaning Of DFA In Baseball: What’s That?

Well, in baseball, “Designated For Assignment” (DFA) means a player is immediately removed from the team’s 40-man roster.

This gives the team 7 days to either trade, release, or place the player on outright waivers. If the player clears waivers, he can be sent to the minor leagues if he accepts the assignment.

DFA is typically used to make room for another player on the roster or to reevaluate the player’s role with the team.

The DFA process differs from simply placing a player on waivers. When a player is DFA’d, he’s initially removed from the roster, but it’s not the same as being placed on outright waivers, where other teams can immediately claim him.

If a DFA’d player clears waivers and isn’t traded, he can be sent to the minors or released, depending on his contract terms and consent.

This rule offers teams more flexibility in managing their roster and player assignments.