Austin Hays fuels Reds’ playoff aspirations with torrid hitting
Austin Hays is stepping up when it matters most. As the Cincinnati Reds navigate a fiercely contested battle for the final National League Wild Card spot, the veteran outfielder is consistently delivering impressive performances, giving his team a fighting chance to secure a postseason berth.
Current Standings and Competitors
Entering Tuesday night’s matchup, the Reds sit at .500 with a record of 75-75, trailing the Mets by two games for the coveted Wild Card position. They are currently locked in a tie with the San Francisco Giants, while the Arizona Diamondbacks have also entered the playoff conversation with a record of 76-75. The race is tight, and every game counts.
Hays’ Recent Surge
Austin Hays has been a pivotal player in this crucial stretch, showcasing his offensive prowess over the last 15 games. During this span, he’s hitting .291 with an impressive .545 slugging percentage, highlighted by four home runs. Overall this season, Hays is batting .266, complemented by 15 doubles, a career-high five triples, and 15 home runs. His ability to drive in runs has been significant, with 64 RBIs to his name, and he has successfully stolen all seven bases he has attempted.
A Career Resurgence
This season marks a notable turning point for Hays, who turned 30 in July and is now in his first year with Cincinnati. With an OPS of .777, he’s on track to achieve the best numbers of his career in a full season. Once a promising prospect for the Baltimore Orioles, Hays has transformed into a vital contributor for the Reds, proving to be an exceptional fit for the team’s needs.
Supporting Cast in the Hunt
The Reds are counting on Hays and others to step up as they approach the final stretch of the season. Elly De La Cruz has been struggling lately, but players like Hays and catcher Tyler Stephenson, who delivered a strong performance on Monday night, are stepping in to provide the necessary production.
As the Reds embark on their final 12-game push for the playoffs, every contribution will be crucial. Hays appears ready to continue his hot streak and play a significant role in the team’s quest for October baseball.
