So, this is what “a little bit” of payroll flexibility gets you in today’s MLB market.
Just two weeks after renegotiating their local TV deal, which provided a payroll boost, the Cincinnati Reds reached an agreement with free-agent outfielder Austin Hays on a one-year, $5 million contract, pending a physical, a source confirmed Tuesday.
Hays, 29, brings a right-handed bat with strong splits against left-handed pitching, complementing the Reds’ acquisition of lefty-hitting Gavin Lux from the Dodgers earlier this offseason. Last season, he posted a .255/.303/.396 slash line, maintaining consistent production before and after being traded from the Orioles to the Phillies. Over his career, he has hit .261 with a .313 on-base percentage and .432 slugging percentage. His best power season came in 2021, when he belted 22 home runs, followed by back-to-back years with 35 and 36 doubles.
Moving to Great American Ball Park for half his games could give his numbers a boost—assuming good health.
Hays joins an offseason haul of experienced players with playoff backgrounds, including Lux, catcher Jose Trevino, and right-hander Brady Singer.
The Reds’ outfield is deep with potential starters and platoon options, including center fielder TJ Friedl, corner outfielder Spencer Steer, right fielder Jake Fraley, and Lux—possibly even Matt McLain at times.
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