Jason Heyward: Everything you need to know

Heyward announced his retirement from professional baseball Friday on the MLB Network. The 36-year-old played for six different teams over 16 major-league seasons, finishing with a career .255/.336/.408 slash line, 186 home runs and 125 stolen bases. Heyward made one All-Star team, won five Gold Gloves and got a World Series ring with the Cubs in 2016.

Heyward (oblique) cleared waivers Tuesday and was released by the Padres. The Padres designated Heyward for assignment Saturday after he logged a .494 OPS through 94 plate appearances. None of the other 29 clubs were willing to bring in the 35-year-old outfielder, so he'll now attempt to find another opportunity in free agency. Given his steep regression, he may need to settle for a minor-league deal.

The Padres designated Heyward (oblique) for assignment Saturday. Heyward served as the Padres' starting left fielder for the early part of the season, but he has struggled at the plate with a .494 OPS. He's been on the injured list twice this season and is currently rehabbing through an strained left oblique. Heyward could be claimed off waivers by a team looking to add depth to the outfield who is also patient enough to wait for the veteran to fully recover from his injury. The move corresponds with Bryan Hoeing (shoulder) being activated from the 60-day injured list and Sean Reynolds being optioned to Triple-A El Paso.