Veteran outfielder Jason Heyward has officially signed a one-year, $1 million contract with the San Diego Padres, marking a new chapter in his 15-season major league career. The deal includes up to $250,000 in performance bonuses, which Heyward can earn through reaching specific plate appearance milestones. These incentives include $50,000 for each of the following benchmarks: 200, 250, 300, 350, and 400 plate appearances, reported by AP News.
Heyward, 35, spent the previous season playing for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Houston Astros. In 87 games combined, he posted a .211 batting average with 10 home runs and 37 RBIs. Despite a less-than-stellar offensive year, Heyward showed his value as a pinch hitter, going 5-for-10 with two home runs, a triple, and seven RBIs in those situations.
A five-time Gold Glove winner, Heyward has built a solid reputation in the field. Throughout his career, he’s earned a .256 career batting average with 184 home runs, 718 RBIs, and 125 stolen bases. His career OPS stands at .748, a testament to his consistent performance. He has played for several teams, including the Atlanta Braves from 2010-2014, St. Louis Cardinals in 2015, Chicago Cubs from 2016 to 2022, and most recently, the Dodgers and Astros.
Heyward’s career reached a significant milestone in 2016 when he helped the Chicago Cubs win their first World Series title in over a century. He also made his lone All-Star appearance in 2010 and finished second in National League Rookie of the Year voting that same season.
In 2023, Heyward earned a $9 million salary in his deal with the Dodgers. However, he was released by the team on August 24, only to sign with the Astros four days later. Despite his age, Heyward’s versatility as an outfielder and his clutch moments as a pinch hitter could prove valuable for the Padres as they look to bolster their roster heading into the 2025 season.
The Padres, with their competitive lineup, are hoping that Heyward can provide leadership and contribute both offensively and defensively in a key role during the upcoming campaign.