The Chicago White Sox have officially signed outfielder Austin Hays to a one-year deal, according to multiple sources. The contract, worth $6 million, includes a mutual option for 2027 with a $1 million buyout. Hays, represented by the MAS+ Agency, is expected to step into a semi-regular role in right field, with potential playing time in left field depending on the team's strategy for Andrew Benintendi. With a history of injuries, Hays is better suited for a corner outfield slot and designated hitter roles. The White Sox, who recently traded Luis Robert Jr. to the Mets, now have a $20 million payroll space to reinvest in their roster. The team is focusing on building a competitive lineup for the 2026 season, and Hays' signing is a step towards that goal. The White Sox are also considering adding a pitcher to their rotation or bullpen, given their current needs. The signing of Hays comes after the Reds released him last summer, and he had a respectable .266/.315/.453 slash line with 15 homers over 416 plate appearances for Cincinnati. Despite his decent production, Hays has never been a walk-heavy hitter and has struggled with hard contact, with his strikeout rates increasing over the last three seasons. His viability for an everyday role will depend on his performance against right-handed pitching, as his splits have been less impressive in recent years.
