The Houston Astros are on the brink of bolstering their outfield with the addition of seasoned veteran Jason Heyward. The move comes after the Los Angeles Dodgers released the 35-year-old outfielder, paving the way for his potential arrival in Houston.
Heyward’s Performance and Role
This season, Heyward participated in 63 games for the Dodgers, accumulating 197 plate appearances. His overall performance was marked by a .208 batting average, a .289 on-base percentage, and a .393 slugging percentage. He also contributed six home runs and four stolen bases. Despite these numbers, Heyward's offensive productivity measured by an OPS+ of 91 indicates he was slightly below league average at the plate this season.
Over his 15-year MLB career, Heyward boasts a career OPS+ of 102, which reflects his consistency as a slightly above-average hitter. His career accomplishments are highlighted by winning five Gold Glove Awards, showcasing his defensive prowess, and an appearance in one All-Star game.
Astros’ Current Outfield Situation
The potential signing of Heyward comes at a critical time for the Astros, whose right field has been notably impacted by the absence of Kyle Tucker since June 3 due to a shin injury. In Tucker's absence, the Astros' right fielders have managed a collective slash line of just .224/.276/.346, with a mere five home runs. This underperformance underlines the need for a reliable and experienced player like Heyward to step in and provide stability.
Strategic Playoff Push
Currently holding a 70-61 record, the Astros are in a strong position within the AL West, maintaining a 3 1/2-game lead over the Seattle Mariners. With the postseason in sight, Houston is clearly aiming to strengthen its lineup and ensure depth and experience on the roster. The acquisition of Heyward could be a critical piece of this puzzle, offering both defensive skill and veteran leadership.
Financial Implications
One significant factor to consider is that Heyward is owed the balance of a $9 million salary for the 2024 season. This financial commitment is an important consideration for the Astros as they weigh the benefits of adding Heyward to their roster. Additionally, any signing of Heyward would necessitate a corresponding roster move to make room for him on the team, further complicating the decision-making process.
In summary, the Astros appear ready to finalize a deal that could substantially improve their outfield situation. Jason Heyward's track record, both offensively and defensively, aligns well with what Houston needs as they push towards the playoffs. While Heyward’s most recent performance with the Dodgers might not fully capture his potential contributions, his career-long consistency and experience make him a valuable asset for the Astros at this critical juncture of the season.