Former Cubs World Series champion retires from MLB at 36

Outfielder Jason Heyward, who won a World Series with the Chicago Cubs in 2016, announced his retirement in an Instagram post March 27.

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Heyward leaves behind a long resume as a talented hitter and outfielder. He won five Gold Glove Awards, made an All-Star team, and collected National League MVP votes in three of his 16 MLB seasons.

Heyward was an All-Star as a rookie with the Atlanta Braves in 2010. He was the runner-up for the National League Rookie of the Year Award and collected downballot MVP votes.

Heyward spent his first five seasons in Atlanta before heading to St. Louis in a four-player trade in November 2014. One year later, Heyward signed an eight-year, $184 million free agent contract with the Cubs.

Heyward failed to replicate his All-Star form at the plate in Chicago,though he didwin Gold Glove Awards in back-to-back seasons in right field (2015-16).

Heyward’s most lasting contribution to the Cubs was an inspirational pep talk he gave to teammates in the Cubs’ clubhouse during a rain delay in Game 7 of the 2016 World Series.

After the delay, the Cubs scored two runs in the 10th inning of the game to claim their first championship since 1908.

Heyward retires with a career slash line of .255/.336/.408 with the Braves, Cardinals, Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers (2023-24), Houston Astros (2024) and San Diego Padres (2025).

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