Padres DFA Jason Heyward, Activate Star Reliever In Surprise Roster Move

Apr 12, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres left fielder Jason Heyward (22) points to the dugout after hitting a one-run home run during the fifth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images | David Frerker-Imagn Images

The San Diego Padres have designated veteran outfielder Jason Heyward for assignment ahead of Saturday's game against the Kansas City Royals.

Read more: Padres Pitcher Has Locker in Clubhouse, Indicating Imminent Roster Move

We have reinstated RHP Bryan Hoeing from the 60-day IL, optioned RHP Sean Reynolds to Triple-A El Paso and designated OF Jason Heyward for assignment.

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) June 21, 2025

The Friars activated reliever Bryan Hoeing off the 60-day injured list, and in a corresponding move, optioned right-handed pitcher Sean Reynolds to Triple-A El Paso.

Heyward was the Padres' starting left fielder at the start of the season, but struggled as he posted a .494 OPS. The veteran also landed twice on the injured list.

The Padres signed Heyward in the offseason. The outfielder was one of many veteran acquisitions by the Friars during a relatively quiet winter.

The departure of Heyward indicates president of baseball operations A.J. Preller will surely be looking to trade for an outfielder this summer at the trade deadline.

It was reported earlier that Hoeing had a locker in the Padres clubhouse, an indication that a roster move from the Padres was coming soon.

The San Diego Union-Tribune's Annie Helibrunn provided more insight into Hoeing's return: "Mike Shildt said they will make a move here shortly with Bryan Hoeing. He'll be joining the team and is built for multiple innings (but they'll likely give him a soft landing to start)."

Mike Shildt said they will make a move here shortly with Bryan Hoeing. He’ll be joining the team and is built for multiple innings (but they’ll likely give him a soft landing to start). #Padres

— Annie Heilbrunn (@annieheilbrunn) June 21, 2025

Hoeing was shut down from the start of the season as well as during spring training because of a shoulder issue.

The right-hander sported a 1.52 ERA in 23.2 innings for the Padres last season after being acquired at the trade deadline.

More news: Padres Urged to Send $280 Million All-Star to Tigers in Blockbuster Trade

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