"Feels like 2014 all over again" - Freddie Freeman expresses disappointment following Dodgers' decision to DFA Jason Heyward

Despite hitting a three-run homer on Tuesday, outfielder Jason Heyward was designated for assignment by the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday night. The veteran outfielder has been one of the most popular players in the LA dressing room, and his influence reached far beyond the field.

However, Heyward was deemed surplus to requirements after utility man Chris Taylor's return from injury. Speaking on the decision to DFA the outfielder, teammate and close friend Freddie Freeman said, per The Athletic:

“I text messaged him and said it feels like 2014 all over again.”

What Freeman was referring to was the time when the duo was separated after Jason Heyward's trade from the Atlanta Braves to the St. Louis Cardinals in 2014.

“It's above my pay grade about what the decisions and all that stuff are, but just personally, it's sad,” Freeman added.

Heyward was selected by the Atlanta Braves in the 2007 MLB Draft and went on to make his major league debut with them in 2010. He has since played for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs, and established himself as an elite defensive player in the major leagues.

The lefty was signed by the Dodgers ahead of the 2023 season, where he accepted a platoon role. He went on to win the Roy Campanella Award, which is given to the Dodger who best exemplifies leadership.

During his early years with the Atlanta Braves, Heyward struck up a close friendship with teammate Freddie Freeman, which had a huge impact on both players.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts explains the decision behind Jason Heyward's DFA

Over his 15-year career in the MLB, it has been clear that Jason Heyward brings a lot more to a baseball team than his bat and gloves. He has proven to be a leader and a fan-favorite in all the teams he has played for. Hence, it was a tough decision for Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts to DFA the veteran, who explained the move by saying:

“It was a very difficult decision, but we had a roster crunch. Guys finally came back to health, and we only have so much room.”

Ultimately, Roberts had three bench spots to fill between four players. With utility player Chris Taylor back from a groin injury, and center fielder Kevin Kiermaier and utility man Kike Hernandez both available for selection, Jason Heyward was the man left out.