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Reds Receive Good News Regarding Injured Outfielder

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Drew Crabtree | Last updated Mar 30, 2025 12:29 PM ET

After a strong Spring Training, the expectation was that Austin Hays was going to be a great addition to the lineup and the outfield. Then, he was hit with a mysterious calf injury that sidelined him at the beginning of the season.

On Sunday, Reds manager Terry Francona told reporters that the goal is to get Hays back in time for the next homestand.

Terry Francona said the goal for Austin Hays (calf) is the next homestand (after they got to San Francisco).

Hays said, “It was good news with the MRI that it was a mild strain. Similar to what I felt like I had last year when it came on and I made the decision to play through…
— Charlie Goldsmith (@CharlieG__) March 30, 2025

Hays' injury just being a strain is great news for the Reds. He was looking like his 2023 self in Spring Training and the outfield could use his services.

In 2024, Hays posted a -0.1 bWAR in 85 games, including a mid-season trade. It was by far his worst season as a Major Leaguer. In the three years prior, Hays' bWAR was 3.4, 2.9, and 2.5, respectively. He was an All-Star starter for the American League from the Baltimore Orioles in 2023.

Spring Training stats do not mean anything. However, Hays was having a strong build-up to the regular season. In 42 at-bats, the outfielder slashed .310/.370/.690 with three home runs and 14 RBI.

The Reds are set to close out the opening series with the San Francisco Giants today and will face off against the Texas Rangers before heading on a seven-game road trip. After a four-game set with the Milwaukee Brewers and three games in San Francisco, the Reds will return home on April 11 to take on the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Hopefully, Hays will be back in time for the Pirates series. In-division, the Reds were 24-28 last year. Adding Hays back into the fold (despite missing the Brewers who have had the Reds' number of late) will be a massive help.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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