5-time Gold Glove winner Jason Heyward retires after 16-year MLB career

Heyward won World Series titles with the Cubs in 2016 and Dodgers in 2024 before retiring at age 36.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 3:34am

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Jason Heyward, a 5-time Gold Glove winner who played 16 seasons in Major League Baseball, announced his retirement on Friday. Heyward launched his career with the Atlanta Braves in 2010 and went on to win World Series championships with the Chicago Cubs in 2016 and the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024. He played for six teams in total, including the St. Louis Cardinals and Houston Astros, and finished his career with a .255 batting average and 186 home runs.

Why it matters

Heyward was known as a defensive standout and clubhouse leader throughout his career, winning five Gold Glove awards. His retirement marks the end of an era for a player who was a key part of two World Series-winning teams and made a lasting impact on the game both on and off the field.

The details

In his final season in 2025, Heyward played in 34 games for the San Diego Padres, hitting .176. Over his 16-year career, he played for the Braves, Cubs, Cardinals, Astros, and Dodgers, winning World Series titles with the Cubs in 2016 and the Dodgers in 2024. Heyward was drafted by the Braves in 2007 out of high school and set career highs with 27 home runs and 82 RBIs for Atlanta in 2012.

  • Heyward announced his retirement on March 28, 2026.
  • Heyward won World Series titles with the Cubs in 2016 and the Dodgers in 2024.
  • Heyward played his final season in 2025, appearing in 34 games for the San Diego Padres.

The players

Jason Heyward

A 5-time Gold Glove winning outfielder who played 16 seasons in Major League Baseball, winning World Series titles with the Chicago Cubs in 2016 and the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who managed Heyward during his final two seasons in 2023 and 2024.

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What they’re saying

“I wanted to reach this moment and know without a doubt that it was time to walk away, and I do. No second-guessing, no looking back, just gratitude.”

— Jason Heyward

“The game needs guys like Jason.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

What’s next

Heyward plans to focus on his youth development program, the Jason Heyward Baseball Academy, based in Chicago, to mentor the next generation of players.

The takeaway

Heyward's retirement marks the end of a storied 16-year MLB career that included two World Series championships, five Gold Glove awards, and a reputation as a respected clubhouse leader. His commitment to giving back to the next generation of players through his youth development program ensures his impact on the game will continue long after his playing days.