Former Reds Outfielder Austin Hays Signs One-Year Deal with White Sox

Hays, an All-Star in 2023, will join a White Sox outfield that includes Andrew Benintendi.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 11:39pm

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The Chicago White Sox have agreed to a one-year, $6 million deal with outfielder Austin Hays, who played for the Cincinnati Reds in 2025. The contract includes an $8 million mutual option for 2027 or a $1 million buyout. Hays, who turns 31 in July, is joining a White Sox outfield that also features former Madeira High School standout Andrew Benintendi.

Why it matters

Hays is a talented outfielder who had a solid season for the Reds in 2025, and his addition to the White Sox roster could help bolster their outfield and lineup as they look to compete in the AL Central division.

The details

Hays, an All-Star in 2023 with the Baltimore Orioles, batted .266 with 15 home runs and a .768 OPS in 416 plate appearances for the Reds last season. The White Sox are hoping he can provide a boost to their outfield as they look to improve on their 2025 season.

  • Hays will turn 31 years old in July 2026.
  • Hays played for the Cincinnati Reds in the 2025 MLB season.

The players

Austin Hays

A 31-year-old outfielder who played for the Cincinnati Reds in 2025 and was an All-Star with the Baltimore Orioles in 2023.

Andrew Benintendi

A former Madeira High School standout who is currently an outfielder for the Chicago White Sox.

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The takeaway

This signing represents an opportunity for Hays to revive his career with a new team and contribute to the White Sox's efforts to improve their roster and compete in the AL Central.