Austin Hays Reflects on Lost Phillies Opportunity After Reds Victory
After a stint with the Phillies cut short by injury and illness, Austin Hays is finding success with the Reds, prompting reflection on what might have been. Now with the Reds, Hays is proving his value.
Austin Hays stood at second base, contemplating what could have been after delivering an RBI double against his former team, the Phillies, in the Reds’ 9-6 victory. The game, played on Friday, offered a poignant reminder of his time in Philadelphia, which was marred by setbacks despite initial promise.
From Philly to Cincinnati: A Fresh Start for Hays
Hays, who turned 30 on Saturday, landed with the Reds after the Phillies opted not to offer him a contract in the offseason. He signed a $5 million contract, a move that has proven fruitful as he’s currently batting .281 with seven home runs and an .853 OPS as the Reds’ everyday left fielder.
A Difficult End to His Phillies Tenure
The journey to Cincinnati was not without its challenges. Traded to the Phillies in July, Hays’ time was significantly impacted by a hamstring strain and a kidney infection, limiting him to only 21 starts in 58 games. This period was particularly tough, as he described it as “the most difficult thing I’d gone through in my career.” Hays had hoped the Phillies would have confidence in his ability to recover fully during the offseason, but the team ultimately decided against bringing him back.
The Phillies’ Perspective and Current Needs
Phillies manager Rob Thomson acknowledged the team’s interest in Hays but cited concerns about his ability to bounce back from the health issues. Reflecting on the decision, Thomson said the Phillies weighed the risks associated with his recovery. Ironically, the Phillies might be in the market for a righty-hitting outfielder at the trade deadline, though bolstering the bullpen remains their top priority.
Lingering Affection for Philadelphia
Despite the unceremonious exit, Hays harbors no ill will. “I was hoping that I’d get to be back because I love the clubhouse over there,” he said. He expressed admiration for the Phillies’ roster, noting the presence of numerous veteran players and potential Hall of Famers.
All-Star Potentials and Extra Innings
While the Phillies were shut out in fan voting for the All-Star Game, several players are expected to be named to the National League roster. Zack Wheeler, boasting a stellar 2.27 ERA, is a strong contender and could potentially start for the NL. He might be joined by teammates Ranger Suárez or Cristopher Sánchez. Kyle Schwarber, with 27 home runs, and Trea Turner are also in contention.
In other news, NBC Sports Philadelphia captured Nick Castellanos in a heated exchange with a fan after the final out. Thomson explained that the fan’s comment directed at Bryson Stott prompted the reaction, with teammates rallying in Stott’s defense. Mick Abel is slated to pitch for triple-A Lehigh Valley on Thursday, following his recent demotion. Wheeler is scheduled to start against Reds rookie Chase Burns.
