Jason Heyward’s Late-Season Impact on the 2024 Houston Astros and Potential Future
Jason Heyward made a surprising yet valuable impact for the Houston Astros after joining the team late in the 2024 season. The 6-foot-5, 240-pound left-handed right fielder from Ridgewood, NJ, joined Houston after a series of successful stints with other teams, including the Atlanta Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, and most recently, the Los Angeles Dodgers. Released by the Dodgers on August 24, Heyward quickly found a new home in Houston, where he participated in 24 of the Astros’ final 30 regular season games.
Heyward’s Background and Arrival in Houston
Originally drafted 14th overall by the Atlanta Braves in the 2007 MLB Draft, Heyward debuted in 2010, earning All-Star honors as a 20-year-old. Known for his consistent defensive prowess and occasionally powerful bat, he spent five years with Atlanta, one with the Cardinals, seven with the Cubs, and over a season with the Dodgers before his release. Houston saw potential in the veteran outfielder, taking a “flyer” on him as they pushed toward the playoffs.
Performance with the Astros
Heyward contributed with a slash line of .218/.283/.473, hitting four home runs and two doubles, driving in nine runs, and scoring eight times. He also stole a base and drew five walks across the late-season games, though he struck out 17 times. Notably, Heyward had several key moments:
– **September 15**: Against the Los Angeles Angels, Heyward recorded three hits, including a home run, and drove in two runs in a 6-4 Astros victory.
– **September 24**: His best game for the Astros came against the Seattle Mariners, where he delivered a game-changing two-run home run in the fifth inning, lifting Houston from a 3-2 deficit to an eventual 4-3 win. This performance gave him a .257 Win Probability Added (WPA), marking his most impactful game with the team.
Although his batting average and on-base percentage weren’t standout numbers, his power and ability to connect on critical hits provided an edge in tight games. Baseball Savant highlighted his success against sliders, a pitch he handled well with a .263/.410/.632 slash line and a 30.8% hard-hit rate, suggesting his selective power at the plate.
Future Free Agency and Potential Astros Offer
Following the World Series, Heyward is set to enter free agency and will be eligible to negotiate with any team. Given his late-season contributions, the Astros may consider offering Heyward a one-year deal to maintain his veteran presence and powerful bat for 2025. While Heyward’s expected slash line (.232/.300/.351) suggests some decline, his reliable defense, ability to connect in high-leverage situations, and leadership could make him a valuable asset as the Astros aim for continued success next season.
In conclusion, Heyward’s late-season run with Houston highlighted his clutch hitting and experience, leaving the Astros with a decision on whether to bring him back for 2025. With his free agency on the horizon, Houston could benefit from his seasoned presence in the lineup for at least another year.