Phillies place Austin Hays on injured list due to kidney infection
- Austin Hays has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a kidney infection.
- He has not played since August 28 and has not improved with initial treatment.
- The Phillies recalled Cal Stevenson to fill Hays' roster spot as they lead the NL East.
The Philadelphia Phillies have placed outfielder Austin Hays on the 10-day injured list due to a kidney infection. Hays has been sidelined since August 28, following his participation in a road series in Toronto. After returning to Philadelphia for further medical evaluation, it was determined that his condition had not improved with initial antibiotic treatment. Manager Rob Thomson expressed uncertainty regarding the duration of Hays' recovery, indicating that the team initially hoped for a quick resolution but had to reassess the situation. Hays, who was acquired from the Baltimore Orioles in a trade on July 26, has played 19 games for the Phillies, achieving a batting average of .269 with one home run and five RBIs. This marks Hays' second time on the injured list since joining the team, as he previously missed 13 games due to a hamstring strain. His experience and performance were expected to contribute significantly to the team's success. In response to Hays' absence, the Phillies have recalled outfielder Cal Stevenson from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to fill the vacant roster spot. This strategic move reflects the team's commitment to maintaining their competitive edge in the National League East, where they currently hold a seven-game lead over the Atlanta Braves. The situation underscores the challenges teams face with player health and the unpredictability of injuries. As the Phillies navigate this setback, they will need to rely on their depth and adaptability to continue their strong performance in the ongoing season.