Former Astros Outfielder Signs with Padres
Jason Heyward, who had a brief stint with the Houston Astros, has reached an agreement with the San Diego Padres, according to The Athletic. Despite his short time in Houston, he played a role in their AL West title run.
San Diego appears to be taking a depth-focused approach to their outfield, recently adding both Heyward and Connor Joe. Once finalized, these signings will give the team more options in their outfield alongside Fernando Tatis Jr. and Jackson Merrill. Other outfielders in the mix include Brandon Lockridge and Tirso Ornelas.
At 35, Heyward remains a strong defender but is likely to fill a platoon role, providing left-handed hitting while also serving as a designated hitter or late-inning defensive replacement.
The Dodgers released Heyward in late August after a decline in performance, leading Houston to sign him as outfield reinforcement. In 24 games, he contributed modestly, hitting .218 with four home runs and nine RBIs. While he helped secure the AL West title, the Astros chose not to re-sign him after the season.
Heyward, a 15-year MLB veteran, debuted with Atlanta in 2010, earning All-Star honors and finishing second in Rookie of the Year voting. He has won five Gold Gloves, though his last came in 2017.
He joined the Cubs in 2016 on an eight-year, $184 million contract. Over seven seasons in Chicago, he hit .245 with 62 home runs and helped the team break its World Series drought. After the 2022 season, he moved to the Dodgers, posting solid numbers in 2023 before struggling in 2024, leading to his release.
Meanwhile, the Astros continue to bolster their outfield depth, most recently signing Ben Gamel to a one-year contract.
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