Dodgers News: Jason Heyward Knew He Could Revitalize Career in LA
When the Dodgers signed veteran outfielder Jason Heyward to a minor league contract last winter, there weren’t that many people who saw the move making a big impact on the season.
It was mainly seen as a minor depth move, and a signing to appease star first baseman Freddie Freeman since the two are close friends.
But fast forward through the season, and Heyward has been one of the most impactful Dodgers this year. His presence in the clubhouse can’t be overstated, and the Dodgers are lucky to have him on their roster.
He was essentially a throwaway player for the Chicago Cubs, but he always believed that he still had something left in the tank. The Dodgers gave him a chance to show what he could do, and he didn’t let them down. His resurgence this season has been nothing short of incredible, and it seems that LA worked their magic once again.
“This is what I definitely hoped would happen,” Heyward said. “I knew I had winning baseball in me. I definitely knew that.”
The biggest thing for Heyward was focusing on helping the team in whatever way possible, no matter what his role was. He was a platoon player during his final few years in Chicago, but it has always been an adjustment for him after being an everyday outfielder for so long.
“It’s always important to be focused on the ‘constant,’” Heyward said. “But you also have to shut off the care factor in certain areas. … It’s tough to tell yourself not to care about certain things.”
Heyward found different ways to make an impact, including being a leader for the younger guys on the team. He showed them the ropes of the big leagues, and it played a vital role in the overall chemistry of the clubhouse.
He helped bring the team together this season and will continue doing so as the playoffs begin this weekend. Heyward is one of the driving forces for the Dodgers, and the hope is that he can help them bring home another World Series title this year.
