Reds’ playoff hopes might hinge on this battered veteran’s bounce-back

Colorado Rockies v Cincinnati Reds | Jeff Dean/GettyImagesThe Cincinnati Reds have every reason to feel optimistic heading into the second half of the season — but that optimism could rest heavily on the health and production of left fielder Austin Hays.

Activated from the injured list on July 11, Hays is finally healthy after a series of nagging injuries derailed his season. A left foot contusion had him sidelined most recently, landing him on the 10-day IL back on May 29. Before that, he battled through a strained left calf and a hamstring issue — injuries all on the same leg.

But now, for the first time in weeks, he’s back in the Reds’ lineup and ready to make a difference. If the Reds…