You feel that? That’s the balance of power shifting in the National League Central.
The Chicago Cubs have agreed to a contract with free-agent outfielder Jason Heyward, according to multiple reports. Gordon Wittenmyer of the Chicago Sun-Times was the first to report Friday that Heyward chose the Cubs over the St. Louis Cardinals and Washington Nationals.
Heyward was considered by most to be the best free agent available this offseason, at least from a position player perspective. He’s a three-time Gold Glove winner with offensive upside. And he’s just 26 years old, meaning he’s likely entering his prime as he joins his third organization.
Heyward spent his first five seasons with the Atlanta Braves before being traded to the Cardinals last offseason. He posted career highs in several offensive categories in 2012 — 27 home runs, 82 RBIs, .814 OPS — though he’s known more for his defensive prowess.
Heyward hit .293 with 13 homers, 60 RBIs, 23 stolen bases and a .797 OPS in 2015. His 6.0 WAR, according to FanGraphs, ranked 11th in Major League Baseball.
This represents another significant move for the Cubs, who are coming off their first playoff campaign since 2008. Chicago already signed John Lackey and Ben Zobrist before reportedly landing Heyward, giving manager Joe Maddon three solid veterans to supplement an impressive young core.
UPDATE (3:35 p.m.): We now know the details of Heyward’s contract. He’ll reportedly earn an average of $23 million annually.
Thumbnail photo via Jeff Curry/USA TODAY Sports Images
