Yankees interested, Royals remain interested in Austin Hays

Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports this morning that the Royals “remain interested” in signing Austin Haysdespite recently acquiring outfielders Isaac Collins And Avenue Thomas. This lines up with previous reports suggesting that president of baseball operations JJ Picollo is still looking for upgrades after his outfielders finished last in the MLB in runs scored, RBI, on-base percentage, OPS, wRC+ and FanGraphs WAR in 2025. Heyman first connected Hays and the Royals earlier this month.

Heyman too notes that the Yankees have “checked in” Hays, though they may only want to add him if they can’t re-sign Cody Bellingerwhich the New York Post reporter describes as their main target. Unlike the Royals, the Yankees led the majors in most offensive categories from the outfield last year, including runs scored, home runs, RBI, all three triple-slash stats, wRC+ and fWAR. Bellinger was a key contributor to that effort, and it’s no surprise that the Bronx Bombers would love to work with him. Aaron Judge And Trent Grisham once more. Their interest in retaining Bellinger is hardly news.

However, this is the first time the Yankees have been linked to Hays. Heyman reported a month ago that Kyle Tucker could be their “backup plan” if they were to miss Bellinger, and needless to say, Hays wouldn’t be the same kind of outfield upgrade. It’s even less clear whether Hays would be an upgrade at all. The young switch hitter Jasson Dominguez certainly has a higher ceiling, while Amed Rosariowhile limited in his outfield experience, is already on the roster to fill a right-hander role. Whether the Yankees’ reported interest in Hays signals a lack of confidence in Domínguez to become an everyday player, a lack of confidence in Rosario to play the outfield, or simply GM Brian Cashman doing his due diligence remains to be seen.

Yesterday, Heyman reported that the Mets’ front office had held discussions about signing Hays. Considering the Mets lost several outfielders to free agency this winter and traded two more, they could certainly find playing time for the veteran in 2026. Of course, he could also be more of a plan B in Queens, as the Mets also expressed interest in signing Bellinger and trading for White Sox center fielder. Luis Robert Jr.

Hays, 30, is coming off a solid season for Cincinnati. In 103 games and 416 PA, he slashed .266/.315/.453 with 15 home runs and a 105 wRC+. He also went 7-for-7 on base while playing excellently in left field. As usual, he was especially effective against left-handed pitching (.949 OPS, 155 wRC+). While Hays is unlikely to be an everyday player, at least not on a competitive team, he has proven he can be a valuable role player during his eight MLB seasons with the Orioles, Phillies and Reds.