The holidays might be over, but the Atlanta Braves still have a chance to deliver something exciting to their fans—a savvy roster upgrade.
While they’ve yet to make significant moves this offseason, there’s room to bolster the team without making a splashy, budget-breaking decision.
Austin Hays, a player who checks all the boxes for a low-risk, high-reward addition to the Braves outfield mix.
Austin Hays: A Buy-Low Candidate with Proven Upside
Hays, identified by Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter as a top buy-low free agent, offers intriguing potential despite a rollercoaster 2024 season.
Once a 2023 All-Star, Hays showcased consistent production from 2021 to 2023, with an average slash line of .261/.313/.439, complemented by 32 doubles, 18 homers, 66 RBIs, and a solid 2.7 WAR.
His numbers dip in 2024 after being traded to the Phillies, however. His slugging percentage fell to .396, and his overall power seemed diminished.
Injuries also played a role in his struggles, sidelining him with calf, hamstring, and kidney issues. Yet, considering his previously clean bill of health, 2024 may well have been an outlier.
The Case for a Bounce-Back Season
What makes Hays a compelling option for Atlanta? First, his contract expectations align perfectly with the Braves’ needs.
Reuter projects a one-year, $8 million deal—a manageable figure for a team looking to balance upgrades with financial flexibility. Hays also provides versatility, with extensive experience at both outfield corners.
He could step in for Ronald Acuña Jr. during spring and slide back into his primary left-field role afterward, offering dependable coverage wherever it’s needed.
Offensively, Hays stands out for his prowess against left-handed pitching. In 2024, he posted a stellar .354/.405/.537 slash line in 90 plate appearances against lefties, bolstering his career .800 OPS against southpaws.
While his numbers against right-handers aren’t elite, they’re respectable enough to consider him more than just a platoon piece.
Injury setbacks aside, his career track record suggests that Hays could bounce back and deliver consistent performance with an offseason to recuperate.
A Versatile Fit for the Braves Outfield Needs
Hays’ appeal extends beyond his individual stats for the Braves. Adding him could free up resources for other roster enhancements, such as fortifying the starting rotation or bullpen.
While he’s not a marquee signing, Hays could be the kind of under-the-radar acquisition that pays dividends across a grueling season.
If Atlanta takes the gamble, they might find that this modest post-Christmas “gift” has a much bigger payoff than expected.
