The Cincinnati Reds have made headlines by signing outfielder Austin Hays to a one-year, $5 million contract, which is pending a physical examination. The deal, announced on Tuesday, includes potential incentives totaling $1 million. This acquisition is the latest move for the Reds as they work to revamp their roster under new manager Terry Francona.
Hays, 29, is known for his right-handed batting, which fills a significant gap in the Reds’ otherwise left-heavy outfield. This signing addresses the team's prioritization of bolstering their offensive lineup, especially after struggling with injuries and offensive inconsistencies last season. For the Reds, the move signals their commitment to improvement as they aim for positive outcomes turning toward the 2025 season.
Originally drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 2016, Hays has been through quite the rollercoaster of experiences throughout his career. After making his MLB debut in 2017 and establishing himself as solid outfielder for the Orioles, he faced significant challenges last season due to health issues. He played only 86 games throughout 2024, battling calf strains and hamstring injuries, and was sidelined due to a severe kidney infection during his time with the Philadelphia Phillies. This infection, which Hays described as “the hardest thing I’ve ever gone through,” caused multiple complications, and he later reflected on how it impacted his performance.
Despite the setbacks, Hays has shown promise as both power hitter and consistent player. He achieved All-Star status in 2023, highlighting his potential on the field. For his career, he boasts respectable numbers, registering a .261 batting average and .313 on-base percentage, with 70 home runs and 217 RBIs. His experience playing primarily left field for the Orioles and the Phillies, combined with his ability to hit well against left-handed pitchers, makes him valuable for the Reds.
Hays’ performance at the plate has been notable. While he recorded average numbers last season, prior seasons reflect his ability to produce effectively. For example, Hays had as many as 22 home runs during the 2021 season, and his consistent hitting abilities are something the Reds are banking on as they prepare for upcoming games.
One of the main advantages of adding Hays to the team is his proficiency against left-handed pitching. He has accrued over 700 plate appearances against lefties with compelling stats—.313 on-base average and .469 slugging percentage. His presence will help balance the Reds’ hitting lineup, allowing for greater flexibility against opposing pitchers, especially as they seek to improve their wRC+ against left-handed pitchers, which finished among the bottom of the league last season.
While Hays’ immediate role with the Reds remains undetermined, he is expected to complement current outfielders, including TJ Friedl and Jake Fraley, and provide depth to the outfield rotation as the team assesses players' performances. This transition to Cincinnati may be beneficial, especially considering the favorable hitting conditions at Great American Ball Park. It is expected this stadium will help revitalize Hays' power numbers, as the field is known for being much more accommodating to right-handed batters than Baltimore's Camden Yards, which has seen changes detrimental to hitter performance.
Despite the promising aspects of Hays’ signing, skepticism lingers due to the injuries he recently faced. Baseball analysts and fans alike are hopeful he can bounce back from last season's struggles and reclaim his career stride. The Reds are optimistic about introducing him to the team this spring training, where the roster’s dynamics can be evaluated. Interests will heighten as fans anticipate how Hays contributes to the Reds’ offensive strategies and his compatibility with the current roster.
General Manager Nick Krall has expressed his intent to continue enhancing the roster, as this signing reflects the Reds' strategic pivot following recent struggles. With this contract, the Reds’ payroll will rise to approximately $110 million, demonstrating the team's willingness to invest resources to revamp competitive potential. Hays’ addition could also impact other players' positions and roles within the team, particularly those who occupy similar outfield spots. Spencer Steer, known for his versatility, may return to the infield, creating more balance across all playing positions.
The focus is not only on Hays' individual performance but also on how his skill set brings together the overall team dynamic, paving the way for optimistic outcomes for the 2025 season. The Reds are hoping this signing could reinvigorate their efforts and energize their presence within the tough NL Central division. Time will tell how Hays meshes with the team and fans' excitement builds as spring training approaches—each eager to witness the potential this signing might represent for the club’s future. Fans remain hopeful for not just improvement, but also for the thrill of competitiveness, avidly awaiting the challenges and triumphs the new season may bring. The countdown to spring training is on—will Austin Hays be the spark the Cincinnati Reds need?