Houston Astros Closing in on Deal for Recently Released Los Angeles Dodgers OF

The Houston Astros are nearing a deal for a 14-year MLB veteran after he was released by the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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. / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Astros have continued to search for talent after the trade deadline. According to Brian McTaggart of MLB.com, the Astros are closing in on a deal for veteran outfielder Jason Heyward.

Heyward has put together a decorated career and will help Houston as they look to make the postseason. They hold a 3.5-game lead over the second-place Seattle Mariners in the American League West.

He was recently released by the Los Angeles Dodgers .

His release by the Dodgers came as a surprise, as it came shortly after he hit a three-run home run against the Mariners.

The 35-year-old might not be the same player he once was, but there's value in adding players who can do what he does on and off the field. In 173 at-bats for Los Angeles, he slashed .208/.289/.393 with six home runs, 10 doubles, 28 RBI, and an OPS+ of 91.

160 of his 173 at-bats were against right-handed pitchers. He's hit five of his six home runs and all 10 of his doubles against righties.

The Astros will give him a chance to prove he belongs on their postseason roster. If things don't work out, there isn't much of a financial commitment in giving him a shot.

Heyward, a World Series champion, one-time All-Star, and five-time Gold Glove Award winner, will bring more experience to this veteran-led team.

Houston has to make a corresponding move, as Heyward needs to be added to the 40-man roster. They'll also have to make a move to open up an active roster spot.

Those announcements have yet to be made.