Jason Heyward is back with the Los Angeles Dodgers in a non-playing role.
On Wednesday, Maddie Lee of the LA Times reported that Heyward joined the Dodgers’ front office as a special assistant. He previously played for the club during the 2023 and 2024 seasons.
“I’m excited for Jason to be back in the organization,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “I do know that he’s gonna do some stuff with the affiliates, which is great. He’s got the clubhouse part of it covered, so part of it is working with the front office guys and getting to see the other side of things. He’s going to be very helpful for his growth and the organization.”
Heyward, 36, announced his retirement on March 27 after playing 16 seasons in the major leagues. The former All-Star debuted with his hometown Atlanta Braves in 2010 and played for six teams during his career. His longest stint came with the Chicago Cubs, whom he helped win the World Series in 2016.
Following a down season at the plate in 2022, Heyward was released by the Cubs with one year remaining on his franchise-record eight-year, $184 million contract. He wound up signing a minor league contract with the Dodgers that offseason and quickly became a clubhouse favorite.
In his first season with the Dodgers, Heyward batted .269/.340/.473 with 15 home runs and 40 RBIs in 124 games. He also received the Roy Campanella Award, given annually to the “Most Inspirational Dodger” as voted on by teammates and coaches.
Heyward appeared in 63 games for Los Angeles the following year before being designated for assignment and picked up by the Houston Astros in late August. The Dodgers later presented Heyward with a 2024 World Series ring for his contributions to the team’s championship run.
Heyward’s final stop as a player came with the San Diego Padres last season, when he made 95 plate appearances before being released in late June. The lefty-hitting outfielder finished his career with five Gold Glove Awards, 186 home runs and a lifetime .255/.306/.408 slash line.
Earlier this year, the Dodgers similarly hired Clayton Kershaw as a special assistant in their front office. ESPN’s Jesse Rogers reported that Heyward also spoke with the Chicago White Sox and Cubs about a potential position before accepting the job with Los Angeles.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on May 14, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
