The departure of Jason Heyward from the Los Angeles clubhouse was particularly troublesome for supervisor Dave Roberts.
“It was very difficult, most likely one of many harder issues I’ve needed to do,” Roberts advised Mike DiGiovanna of The Los Angeles Instances forward of Friday evening’s collection opener towards the Tampa Bay Rays. “What Jason did for the in a yr and a half was fairly outstanding, on the sector, within the clubhouse, locally, and his fingerprint will likely be eternal.”
Many speculated that Heyward cemented his spot on the roster after he hit a tie-breaking three-run homer as a pinch-hitter in Tuesday evening’s 6-3 win over the Seattle Mariners. He saved the that evening and it was arguably one of the simplest ways to showcase why Los Angeles wanted to maintain him on the roster.
And but, to the dismay of a number of followers, the tie-breaking homer was his closing at-bat in a uniform.
Heyward was a beloved participant by followers and his teammates. He’s additionally the perfect good friend of first baseman Freddie Freeman. A number of folks believed the long-time friendship would support Heyward in remaining on the roster.
However Los Angeles made a enterprise choice and Heyward was designated for task to make room on the roster for Taylor.
“It was a really troublesome choice, however we had a roster crunch,” Roberts continued. “Guys lastly got here again to well being, and we solely have a lot room.”
Heyward gained the 2023 Roy Campanella Award, which is given yearly to the participant who most embodies the spirit and management of the Corridor of Famer. The accolade is a testomony to how revered Heyward was within the clubhouse.
Regardless of his management function for the crew, the valued Taylor extra.
“I believe it’s a type of issues the place C.T. was prepared to return again, and also you’re attempting to understand the truth that he’s not damage anymore,” Roberts mentioned. “He’s prepared to return again, and that was sort of the driving force of it.”
Heyward hit .208 with a .682 OPS, recorded six homers and 28 RBIs by way of 63 video games. He served primarily in a platoon function in Los Angeles, however most not too long ago served as a pinch-hitter in gentle of Mookie Betts returning to proper area.
Photograph Credit score: Paul Halfacre-USA TODAY Sports activities
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