Jason Heyward, World Series champ, 5-time Gold Glover, retires
ESPN • • general
Key Points:
- Jason Heyward officially retired from Major League Baseball after a 16-year career, concluding his journey with the San Diego Padres last season.
- Heyward won a World Series championship with the Chicago Cubs in 2016 and signed an eight-year, $184 million contract with the team, the largest in franchise history.
- Over his career, Heyward hit .255 with 186 home runs, earned five Gold Glove awards, and was known for his defensive prowess and leadership in the clubhouse.
- His most memorable moment came during Game 7 of the 2016 World Series when he delivered a motivational speech during a rain delay that helped calm the Cubs and contributed to their historic championship win.
- Post-retirement, Heyward plans to focus on his youth baseball academy in Chicago to mentor young players and give back to his community.
