White Sox Sign Former All-Star Outfielder Austin Hays
Austin Hays, the recent All-Star outfielder, is set to join the Chicago White Sox as they rebuild for the 2026 season. Hays, 30, previously played for the Baltimore Orioles and was with the Cincinnati Reds last season.
Austin Hays’s Journey in Major League Baseball
The transition of Hays marks another chapter in his career. After significant interest during free agency, he ultimately chose the White Sox over other contenders, including the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres, Texas Rangers, and Detroit Tigers. ESPN’s Jesse Rogers was the first to break the news, although details of the contract are still forthcoming.
Performance Overview
In the 2023 season, while with the Cincinnati Reds, Hays played 103 games. His season statistics include:
- Batting Average: .266
- On-Base Percentage: .315
- Slugging Percentage: .453
- Home Runs: 15
- Runs Batted In (RBIs): 64
- Runs Scored: 60
Despite some injury setbacks in the past two seasons, Hays has shown promise and effectiveness at the plate. From 2021 to 2023 with the Orioles, he registered a Wins Above Replacement (WAR) of 3.4, 2.9, and 2.5, respectively. His performance peaked in 2023 when he made his first All-Star Game appearance.
Impact on the White Sox
Hays is expected to strengthen the White Sox’s lineup, particularly after the recent trade of centerfielder Luis Robert Jr. to the New York Mets. Following a challenging 2022 season, where the White Sox finished with a record of 60–102, Hays’s addition could provide the offensive boost the team desperately needs.
As the White Sox aim to turn their fortunes around in the upcoming years, Hays’s experience and batting capabilities will be crucial for their success.
