baseball

Dodgers hire former World Series champion in unique role

Yahoo Sports

The Los Angeles Dodgers are the class of MLB and are always looking for ways to improve. Sometimes that means signing stars. Sometimes it means making trades.

And sometimes, it means bringing back respected former players in entirely new roles. This week, the Dodgers added former World Series champion Jason Heyward to the organization in a unique front office position, continuing the franchise’s aggressive effort to strengthen every part of the operation. MORE: MLB Power Rankings, 30 teams ranked worst to first Dodgers Staying Aggressive Despite Slow Stretch Los Angeles has gone just 5-5 over its last 10 games, temporarily losing control of the NL West division race.

But realistically, nobody around baseball is panicking. The Dodgers remain one of the most talented teams in MLB and are still viewed by many as the favorites to win the 2026 World Series. That’s what makes this move especially interesting.

Even during the season, the Dodgers continue looking for ways to evolve organizationally. Aug 20, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Jason Heyward (23) runs the bases after hitting a three-run home run in the eighth inning against the Seattle Mariners at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports Jason Heyward Begins New Chapter Heyward’s addition to the front office marks the beginning of a completely new phase in his baseball career.

The veteran outfielder spent 16 seasons in the Major Leagues and was widely respected throughout baseball for his leadership, professionalism, experience, and clubhouse presence. Now he’ll try to translate that experience into the business and operational side of the game. While Heyward has never worked in a front office before, he brings something many executives can’t teach: real player perspective.