Jason Heyward paid handsomely by Chicago Cubs

Jason Heyward reportedly just signed an eight-year deal to play for the Chicago Cubs worth $184 million.

Jason Heyward reportedly turned down a massive $200 million deal to play for the Washington Nationals, opting to sign for slightly less to play for the Chicago Cubs. ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick reports that Heyward signed an eight-year deal worth $184 million to play for the Cubbies on the North Side of Chicago.

Heyward was part of the Shelby Miller deal with the Atlanta Braves that sent Heyward and relief pitcher Jordan Walden to the St. Louis Cardinals. After his two-year deal he signed with the Braves after 2013 expired at the end of the 2015 MLB season, Heyward entered free agency as one of the most coveted outfielders.

The Cubs believe that they have signed an outfielder bursting with potential to a massive deal that could hopefully pan out. Keep in mind that Heyward has not made an All-Star team since his rookie year in Atlanta in 2010. Will Heyward live up to his potential in Chicago?

He will be a major piece for the club in the long-term as one of the older members of their young corps. Heyward and first basemen Anthony Rizzo are both 26 years old. Jorge Soler, Kris Bryant, Addison Russell, and Kyle Schwarber are all younger. Ben Zobrist is the seasoned veteran in the Cubs’ 2016 lineup at 34 years of age.

Peter Gammons reports that a key component of Heyward’s deal is that it has two opt outs built into it. This seems like a major part of most long-term deals and that could certainly play a part in the life of this current eight year contract.

Will Heyward live up to the hype of his potential in the Windy City playing for the Cubs? Given that his contract will expire when he is 34 years old, he better live up to his potential on the North Side or he may have to graciously opt out of his blockbuster deal with the Cubs.