Career Timeline of Jason Heyward: Major Achievements and Milestones

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Jason Heyward made an impact.

Jason Heyward, nicknamed "J-Hey", is an American professional baseball outfielder and a free agent. He has played in MLB for several teams, including the Atlanta Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, Houston Astros, and San Diego Padres. Heyward is known for his defensive skills and has won multiple Gold Glove Awards. He was initially highly touted as a prospect, and while his offensive production hasn't always matched expectations, he has remained a valuable player due to his fielding and leadership.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

August 25, 2008: Promotion to Myrtle Beach

On August 25, 2008, Jason Heyward was promoted to Myrtle Beach.

March 2010: Spring Training Invitation

In March 2010, Jason Heyward was invited to spring training with the Braves, and his hitting impressed many. A Coca-Cola truck and Bruce Manno's car were damaged by his hits.

October 7, 2010: Postseason Debut

On October 7, 2010, Jason Heyward made his postseason debut in the National League Division Series (NLDS) against the San Francisco Giants.

January 18, 2013: Signed Deal with Braves

On January 18, 2013, Jason Heyward signed a one-year, $3.65 million deal with the Braves, avoiding salary arbitration.

February 4, 2014: Contract Extension with Braves

On February 4, 2014, the Braves bought out Jason Heyward's last arbitration-eligible years, agreeing on a two-year, $13.3 million contract.

November 17, 2014: Traded to St. Louis Cardinals

On November 17, 2014, Jason Heyward, along with pitcher Jordan Walden, was traded by the Atlanta Braves to the St. Louis Cardinals for pitchers Shelby Miller and Tyrell Jenkins.

April 5, 2015: First Game as a Cardinal

On April 5, 2015, Jason Heyward played his first game as a Cardinal, achieving three hits, including two doubles and a stolen base.

December 15, 2015: Signed with the Chicago Cubs

On December 15, 2015, Jason Heyward signed an eight-year, $184 million contract with the Chicago Cubs, which at the time was the largest player contract the Cubs had ever signed.

October 25, 2016: First African-Americans to play for the Cubs in a World Series game

On October 25, 2016, Jason Heyward, along with teammates Dexter Fowler, Addison Russell, and Carl Edwards Jr., became the first African-Americans to play for the Cubs in a World Series game.

May 8, 2017: Heyward goes on disabled list

On May 8, 2017, Jason Heyward was placed on the 10-day disabled list due to a sprained finger he suffered in a game against the Yankees three days prior.

May 8, 2018: Heyward goes on disabled list due to concussion

On May 8, 2018, Jason Heyward was placed on the disabled list due to concussion protocols after attempting a game-saving catch of a home run by William Fowler.

May 8, 2022: Heyward placed on injured list

On May 8, 2022, Jason Heyward was placed on the injured list with a left quadriceps strain.

November 14, 2022: Heyward released by Chicago Cubs

On November 14, 2022, Jason Heyward was officially released by the Chicago Cubs, despite being owed a $22 million salary for the 2023 season.

December 8, 2022: Heyward signs minor league contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers

On December 8, 2022, Jason Heyward signed a minor league contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers that included an invitation to major league spring training.

December 2022: Heyward's contract listed as one of the worst MLB free-agent contracts

In December 2022, The Sporting News included Jason Heyward's eight-year, $184 million contract with the Cubs on its list of the top 15 worst MLB free-agent contracts of all time.

December 6, 2023: Heyward signs contract to return to the Dodgers

On December 6, 2023, Jason Heyward signed a one-year, $9 million contract to return to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

August 29, 2024: Heyward signs with the Houston Astros and debuts

On August 29, 2024, Jason Heyward signed a one-year, major league contract with the Houston Astros and in his debut, hit a key two-run double that spearheaded a 6–3 win versus the Kansas City Royals.

September 24, 2024: Astros clinch AL West Division title

On September 24, 2024, the Astros clinched their fourth straight American League (AL) West Division title with a 4–3 win over the Seattle Mariners, with Jason Heyward contributing a key catch and a two-run home run.