Freddie Freeman Wants to See the Dodgers Bring Back Jason Heyward Next Year

Freddie Freeman had arguably the best year of his career with the Dodgers in 2023. He led the league in doubles (59) with an OPS+ of 161.

These stats earned him third place in the MVP voting behind current teammate Mookie Betts and the eventual winner, former teammate, Ronald Acuna Jr.

Freeman’s impact on the Dodgers is felt beyond the field. He brings model work ethic and leadership to the club as well. Lastly, he pounded the table for a former teammate who was struggling in MLB, Jason Heyward.

During an interview Freeman gave to SportsNetLA, he commented about the front office bringing in Heyward,

“I was just so happy that he was in our organization and I don’t know what the offseason is gonna tell us but I hope he’s in a Dodgers uniform again next year.

Freddie Freeman on SportsNetLA

Jason Heyward’s Impact on the Dodgers

The Dodgers brought in Heyward on a minor league contract after the left-hander struggled in his previous years with the Cubs. The Cubs parted ways with Heyward and were actually paying him $22.5MM to not play for them.

Heyward earned his way onto the major league roster after showing off his prowess in the spring training and producing at the plate as part of a platoon.

Primarily platooning in the outfield, Heyward hit a .813 OPS with 15 home runs in 2023. He also showed incredible leadership with the Dodgers in his first year.

In the early goings of 2023, Heyward bought each of his teammates and manager Dave Roberts a bottle of wine. He would also routinely pick up the tab at team dinners.

Heyward took rookie James Outman under his wing and mentored the young centerfielder. They share similar swing types and overall athleticism, so when Outman struggled in 2023 he looked to Heyward to help him. Outman would go on to place third in Rookie of the Year voting.

Jason Heyward is currently a free agent and owed $5MM from the Chicago Cubs. With the corner outfield being atop of the Dodgers’ needs list, a continuance of this partnership would be most welcome.

Heyward provided excellent defense in the outfield, showed once again why the Cubs paid him in the first place, and there is no price on the leadership he brings to the clubhouse.

Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

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