Dodgers release Jason Heyward – MLB transfer rumors

The Dodgers released Jason Heywardaccording to MLB.com's transaction log. Heyward was very likely to become a free agent after LA designated for assignment on Thursday.

Heyward's DFA came as a surprise even to a team that had already dropped the deadline pickup option Amed Rosario. Although Heyward didn't have a great season, he was an above-average performer in a platoon role a year ago. The veteran outfielder hit .269/.340/.473 with 15 home runs in 377 at-bats in 2023. His numbers are down this year, as he's hitting .208/.289/.393 in 197 plate appearances.

Most of that decline is due to a career-low .224 in balls in play. Heyward's strikeout and walk profile is essentially the same as it was a year ago, and his hard contact percentage is up more than six points from last season. However, the higher exit velocities have been accompanied by an increase in ground balls, which is not an ideal trend for a pull hitter in his mid-30s.

Heyward is no longer a Gold Glove-caliber outfielder, but he remains a solid defender in right field. Statcast has him at league average in 434 innings. Defensive Runs Saved has him three runs over par. Another team could view Heyward as a complementary platoon hitter who can slot right into their big league roster.

The Dodgers will have to cover the remainder of Heyward's $9 million salary for this season. A signing team would only be responsible for the prorated portion of the league minimum salary of $740,000. It stands to reason that Heyward's camp will be quick to look for a deal now that he's on the open market. He would have to sign somewhere else (either an MLB or minor league contract) by the end of the month to be postseason eligible with a new team.