Fansided · Aug 7, 2025
Slumping Reds bat could force Terry Francona into an uncomfortable lineup change
Atlanta Braves v Cincinnati Reds | Jason Mowry/GettyImagesAustin Hays' extended slump has gone somewhat under the radar since the All-Star break. The Cincinnati Reds outfielder, who's been used as primarily as the team's DH of late, has been one of the team's worst hitters, and it's time to wonder if Terry Francona will bump Hays out of the cleanup spot and move him further down in the lineup.
Hays has hit cleanup in 60-plus games this season, which was the plan coming out of spring training. Francona spoke endlessly about Hays batting cleanup to protect Elly De La Cruz, but his recent slump has become a hindrance.