CHICAGO, February 15, 2024 – The Chicago White Sox have bolstered their outfield options, reaching a one-year agreement with outfielder Colton Hays. The move, announced Thursday, provides manager Pedro Grifol with added flexibility as spring training approaches.
Adding Depth to the Outfield Mix
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The White Sox signed Colton Hays to a one-year deal, strengthening their outfield depth for the 2024 season.
- Colton Hays signed a one-year contract with the White Sox.
- The deal adds depth to Chicago’s outfield heading into spring training.
- Hays has appeared in 114 Major League games.
The White Sox confirmed the agreement, though financial terms were not disclosed. Hays, a right-handed hitter, has played in 114 Major League games, primarily with the Baltimore Orioles. He provides a versatile option for the White Sox, capable of playing all three outfield positions.
Hays spent the 2023 season with the Orioles, where he batted .216 with 13 home runs and 42 RBIs in 104 games. He has a career .228 batting average with 21 home runs and 73 RBIs. The White Sox are hoping Hays can tap into his power potential and become a valuable contributor.
A Look at Hays’s Career
Hays was originally drafted by the New York Yankees in the fourth round of the 2017 MLB Draft. He was later traded to the Orioles as part of a package for Zack Britton in 2018. He made his Major League debut with Baltimore in 2022.
The addition of Hays addresses a need for the White Sox, who are looking to improve their offensive production and defensive capabilities in the outfield. The team is currently evaluating its options as it prepares for the start of spring training in Glendale, Arizona.
Potential Impact on the Roster
The signing of Hays could impact the playing time of other outfielders on the White Sox roster, including Luis Robert Jr., Andrew Benintendi, and Dominic Fletcher. However, the team views Hays as a valuable addition who will compete for a role.
The White Sox are banking on Hays providing a spark and contributing to their success in the upcoming season. The team is eager to see what he can bring to the table as they strive to contend in the American League Central.
