In 80 plate appearances over 20 games with the Phillies, the veteran batted just .256/.275/.397, with two home runs and six RBI.
During his All-Star campaign in 2023, Hays hit .275/.325/.444 with 16 home runs, 67 RBI, and a 114 OPS+ across 566 plate appearances in 144 games.
Hays has had a career full of ups and downs over his seven seasons in Major League Baseball, but he is still under 30.
Now a free agent for the first time in his career, Hays could be a valuable bench bat for any contender seeking depth.
The Philadelphia Phillies needed to strengthen their outfield at the 2024 MLB trade deadline, and they believed they achieved this by trading with the Baltimore Orioles.
The Phillies traded relief pitcher Seranthony Dominguez and journeyman Cristian Pache to the Orioles in exchange for veteran outfielder Austin Hays to become their everyday left fielder.
Due to two different injuries, including a kidney infection, and inconsistent performance at the plate, it became clear that Philadelphia was dissatisfied with the trade, prompting them to make another move today to address the issue.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Hays was informed by the Phillies today that he will be non-tendered before tonight's deadline, officially making him a free agent.
Hays experienced a significant decline in his performance from his time with Baltimore to his stint in Philadelphia, dropping from a 108 OPS+ at the start of the season to an 86 OPS+ by the end.
Sep 27, 2024; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Austin Hays (9) rounds the bases during the eighth inning after hitting a home run against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park.
James A. Pittman-Imagn Images
The Phillies' Austin Hays era has ended
November 24, 2024
The apple of Dave Dombrowski's eye has been non-tendered.
Philly Sports Jawn
Jawn Kruk
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