Reds Sign Austin Hays to $5M Deal

The Cincinnati Reds have signed outfielder Austin Hays to a one-year, $5 million contract with $1 million in incentives, pending a physical. Hays, a former All-Star, became a free agent after being non-tendered by the Philadelphia Phillies following a challenging 2024 season impacted by a kidney infection. Despite a downturn in performance, the Reds hope he will bolster their outfield lineup with his power-hitting capabilities, evidenced by a career 107 OPS+ and previous seasons of solid power numbers. Hays joins a roster featuring new manager Terry Francona and recent acquisitions like Gavin Lux and Jose Trevino as the Reds aim to be competitive in 2025. His addition provides another outfield option alongside TJ Friedl, Jake Fraley, and Spencer Steer. The Reds expect Hays to bring both offensive depth and an energetic presence to the team, potentially aiding their playoff aspirations.