Cubs Fans Can No Longer Talk Trash on Jason Heyward
By Parker White
When Jason Heyward was coming up with the Atlanta Braves, he was labeled as the next great superstar in the game. Well, he's in his 10th season now, and it's safe to say that he hasn't lived up to those supremely lofty expectations.
Heyward was paid handsomely by the Chicago Cubs with an eight-year, $184 million contract, and there's no doubt he's one of the best defensive outfielders in the game. However, his offense has never really reached the level to one of an annual All-Star.
In 2019, though, Heyward is slashing .276/.353/.472 with 34 extra-base hits (17 home runs) and 48 RBI.
Jason Heyward is up to a .279/.356/.475 line, good for a 114 wRC+. He had two offensive seasons worse than that BEFORE coming to the Cubs.
— Bleacher Nation (@BleacherNation) August 4, 2019
That is to say ... he's having a good year.
After being a staple at the bottom of the Cubs lineup, Heyward has been moved to the leadoff spot and has thrived, including Sunday, when he went 2-for-5 with a triple, home run and 3 RBI.
Even better is came this weekend against the division-rival Milwaukee Brewers.
Jason Heyward's huge weekend helped the Cubs sweep their division rivals and he'll play a key role for this team down the stretch:https://t.co/BRMRrV4SjV
— Cubs Talk (@NBCSCubs) August 4, 2019
With the inconsistencies of Kyle Schwarber and Albert Almora Jr., as well as the long absence of utility man Ben Zobrist, the Cubs needed someone in that outfield to step it up. Heyward has done that and more.
Heyward may not be the next Hank Aaron like he was pegged back in 2010 or live up to his massive contract, but he's not a scrub, either. If you want to blame anyone on this Cubs, you can't keep referring to Heyward. He's doing his job and has really elevated his play in 2019.