The New York Yankees are keeping a close eye on Austin Hays in case they cannot re-sign Cody Bellinger, but they will have to rush for one of the two, since the New York Mets and the Kansas City Royals entered the race for the right fielder.
MLB Network insider Jon Heyman reports that the Yankees, as well as the Mets and Royals, are interested in the services of Austin Hays.
Read also: Yankees would go after Austin Hays if they don’t sign Bellinger
Hays, 29, an All-Star with the Orioles in 2023, hit 15 home runs and posted a .768 OPS in just 103 games with the Reds this past season after signing a one-year, $5 million deal with them in January. According to Heyman, Hays could become a “more realistic” target for the Yankees if they are unable to re-sign Bellinger, who remains their top priority in free agency. Hays would also seem to fit the Mets’ desire for a right-handed outfielder who can be had on a short-term contract.
The Royals have addressed their disappointing outfield by signing free agent Lane Thomas and acquiring Isaac Collins from the Brewers. But their search for improvements has continued and according to The Athletic, they are interested in making a trade for the Red Sox’s Jarren Durán.
