The Boys in Blue are welcoming back a familiar face, with reports indicating that Andrew Heaney is set to rejoin the organization on a minor-league agreement.
Heaney, now 34 years of age, was recently released by the Pittsburgh Pirates on August 29th, a consequence of being designated for assignment. During his time with the Pirates, he accumulated a 5.39 earned run average and a win-loss record of 5-10, while also recording 84 strikeouts across 120 1/3 innings pitched. His strikeout rate of 6.2 per nine innings represents the lowest mark for a full season in his 12-year Major League Baseball career.
While an official announcement from the team is still pending, sources such as Jon Heyman of the New York Post suggest that Heaney finalized the agreement prior to Monday’s deadline, ensuring his eligibility for the team’s postseason roster. The terms of the minor-league contract stipulate that he will initially report to Triple-A Oklahoma City.
Previously, the left-handed pitcher donned the Dodgers uniform during the 2022 season, where he posted a 3.10 ERA and a 4-4 record in 16 appearances (14 starts). He also demonstrated his strikeout ability, accumulating 110 strikeouts in 74 2/3 innings.
The Dodgers currently boast a complete five-man starting rotation comprised of Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, Blake Snell, Clayton Kershaw, and Shohei Ohtani. Roki Sasaki is presently undergoing a rehab assignment and is anticipated to rejoin the team in September, provided there are no unforeseen complications.
However, the addition of Heaney provides manager Dave Roberts with the flexibility to provide his starters with additional rest as they progress towards the postseason. It is worth noting that Glasnow and Snell are both recovering from recent injuries, while Kershaw is now 37 years old. Heaney’s presence could also offer a valuable left-handed option out of the bullpen, capable of pitching multiple innings when required.
Heaney commenced his professional career with the Miami Marlins, who selected him as a first-round pick (No. 9 overall) in the 2012 MLB draft. Throughout his career, he has also pitched for the Los Angeles Angels, New York Yankees, and Texas Rangers. To date, he has a career ERA of 4.55 and a win-loss record of 56-72, accompanied by a strikeout rate of 9.2 per nine innings.
Heaney originally signed a one-year, $5.25 million contract with the Pirates. As a result of joining the Dodgers, he will receive a prorated salary based on the MLB veteran’s minimum of $760,000.
As of Monday’s MLB schedule, the Dodgers (78-59) hold a two-game advantage over the San Diego Padres in the race for first place in the NL West. However, their record is the third-best in the National League, trailing both the Milwaukee Brewers and Philadelphia Phillies.
