Yankees and Mets Make Outfield Moves
The Yankees and Mets have both made strides to enhance their outfields, as Austin Hayes heads to the White Sox.
The experienced outfielder has agreed to a one-year deal worth $6 million, plus additional incentives, as reported by Jon Heyman on Saturday.
Earlier that same morning, Heyman mentioned several teams that expressed interest in Hayes, including the Reds, Rangers, Tigers, Cardinals, Padres, and Cubs. Although the Yankees and Mets showed initial interest earlier in the offseason, they opted for other key signings recently.
Hayes, who has been in the league for eight years, had a strong performance with the Reds in 2025, particularly excelling against left-handed pitchers. His statistics showed he had a .319 batting average, .400 on-base percentage, and .549 slugging percentage against lefties, while he was even more productive against right-handed pitchers, hitting 13 home runs compared to just two against lefties.
The Yankees had considered Hayes as a potential option if they decided against re-signing Cody Bellinger, thinking he might share playing time with Jason Dominguez. However, with Bellinger returning on a five-year deal and the Yankees also securing right-hander Amed Rosario, their need for an additional right-handed hitter has lessened.
Meanwhile, the Mets had shown interest in Hayes back in December. But after trading for Luis Robert Jr. and already having Tyron Taylor, it seems they now have enough depth in their outfield.
Interestingly, the Mets’ acquisition of Robert played a significant role in Hayes’ final choice, as the White Sox were looking to fill the gap left by a talented but frequently injured center fielder.
Chicago has been quite active this offseason, adding Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami along with relievers Seranthony Dominguez and Luisangel Acuña in the trade for Robert.
Last season, the White Sox struggled with a 60-102 record, which means Hayes could become available for trade at some point this summer.
Throughout his career, Hayes has maintained a batting average of .262, with an OPS of .748 and a total of 83 home runs. He began his journey with the Orioles in 2017, moved to the Phillies in 2024, and joined the Reds last offseason.
