While the Los Angeles Dodgers remain in the market for starting pitching, they reportedly agreed to terms with Jason Heyward on a contract for the 2024 season.
Heyward’s one-year deal is said to be worth $9 million and represents a significant step forward from the Minor League contract he signed with the Dodgers last offseason. That was at the urging of Freddie Freeman, who was confident his longtime friend would find success in L.A.
Amid reports of the Dodgers re-signing Heyward, Bobby Miller, James Outman and Alex Vesia each shared a positive reaction on their respective Instagram accounts.
Along with a remarkable turnaround from his 2022 season with the Chicago Cubs, Heyward was lauded for his strong presence and influence in the clubhouse.
Outman was among multiple teammates who regularly praised Heyward and mentioned him as being a valued mentor.
Manager Dave Roberts named Heyward among the players who were an extension of him in the Dodgers clubhouse, and revealed there was one instance where the veteran outfielder helped correct the behavior and approach of one teammate during the season.
Jason Heyward wins Roy Campanella Award
Further indicative of how valued Heyward was in the Dodgers clubhouse, he was voted by teammates as the winner of the 2023 Roy Campanella Award. It’s presented annually to one player who best exemplifies the spirit and leadership of the late Hall of Fame catcher.
“It’s really cool to be recognized by things, especially awards I feel like are about team and pulling everyone in one direction,” Heyward said of being named the 2023 Roy Campanella Award winner.
“When you have your teammates acknowledge you and want to make sure you get recognized for it, it’s really special. Because that’s not my intent. That’s just part of who I am and have always been. I want the best for everyone on and off the field. First year with the team, it’s very, very special.”
Heyward joined Rafael Furcal (2006), Jamey Carroll (2010) and Freeman (2022) as the only Dodgers to receive the honor in their first season with the team.
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