Jason Heyward MESA, AZ – FEBRUARY 24: Outfielder Jason Heyward #22 of the Chicago Cubs checks the wind by licking his finger during batting practice at a spring training workout at Sloan Park on February 24, 2016 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images)

Veteran outfielder Jason Heyward has been with the Chicago Cubs since joining the team in 2016. But after seven seasons within the organization, it looks like Heyward has played his final game with the Cubs.

According to Cubs president Jed Hoyer, Heyward will not play for Chicago again this season after suffering a knee injury in June and the team is planning to release the veteran outfielder ahead of the 2023 season – the final year of his $184 million contract.

Heyward has not played since June 24 and has been on the injured reserve list as he deals with a knee issue.

Though his time with the team is coming to an end, Mooney reports that the Cubs will keep Heyward around the clubhouse as an inactive player for the rest of this season because he’s highly respected as a leader among the team.

In his seven seasons with the team, Heyward hit .245 with 289 RBI and 62 home runs. He also won two Gold Gloves during the 2016 and 2017 seasons – his first two seasons with the Cubs.

Though Heyward is a respected veteran in the clubhouse, his release will likely pave the way for younger players in the Cubs system to have a chance.

[Patrick Mooney]