Phillies Acquire Austin Hays from Orioles in Key Trade

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — In a significant move ahead of the playoff push, the Philadelphia Phillies have acquired outfielder Austin Hays from the Baltimore Orioles. The trade, announced on Friday, involved right-handed pitcher Seranthony Domínguez and outfielder Cristian Pache heading to Baltimore. Hays, who was the starting center fielder for the American League in the 2023 All-Star Game, has struggled this season, recording only three home runs and 14 RBIs in 63 games. As of Friday, the Orioles held a strong position in the AL East with a record of 61-41, leading the New York Yankees by two games. Meanwhile, the Phillies are enjoying the best record in baseball at 64-38. Hays, drafted by the Orioles in 2016, has played 557 games over seven seasons, accumulating 66 home runs and 242 RBIs. His career statistics against left-handed pitchers show promise, with a .272 batting average and a .463 slugging percentage. The Phillies are expected to utilize Hays in a platoon role alongside left-handed hitting Brandon Marsh in left field, as they aim for their third consecutive playoff appearance and their first World Series title since 2008. Domínguez, who has been with the Phillies for six seasons, has a 4.25 ERA this year, while Pache has struggled offensively, hitting just .202 in 50 games this season. This trade marks a strategic move for both teams as they navigate the remainder of the season.