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5h ago

Padres Sign Veteran Outfielder Austin Hays

The signing supplies a right‑handed platoon bat to shore up a team weakness against left‑handed pitching late in the wild‑card race.

Apr 29, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago White Sox left fielder Austin Hays singles against the Los Angeles Angels during the first inning at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
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Apr 3, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago White Sox left fielder Austin Hays (21) runs after hitting a two-run single against the Toronto Blue Jays during the third inning at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Aug 9, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres pitch hitter Austin Hays (15) celebrates after hitting a two-run home run during the eighth inning against the Houston Astros at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Hays agreed to a major‑league contract Sunday and the Padres opened an active roster spot by optioning utilityman Gage Workman to Triple‑A El Paso.
  • The 31‑year‑old was released by the White Sox after being activated from the injured list and designated for assignment earlier this week.
  • Hays has played nine MLB seasons and was a 2023 All‑Star, but he appeared in only 12 big‑league games in 2026 because of a right hamstring and left calf issue.
  • San Diego projects Hays as a right‑handed bench and platoon bat who will likely start versus left‑handed pitchers and pinch‑hit in those matchups.
  • The move addresses a clear roster need: the Padres entered the day with a below‑average OPS vs. lefties and Hays’ career numbers show a marked split favoring success against southpaws, giving the club a low‑cost, experienced option down the stretch.