It’s not the best solution fans are hoping for. However, to see Austin Hays’ name appear in recent New York Mets rumors involving their hunt for some outfield depth, they could do much worse.
According to the NY Post’s Jon Heyman, the Mets have discussed Hays internally as part of a solution for their current outfield situation.
A longtime Baltimore Orioles player who was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies in 2024, Hays is coming off of a productive year with the Cincinnati Reds. Of note, he hit .319/.400/.549 against left-handed pitchers. He’d actually be a good safety net in left field and temporary option at the position until Carson Benge is deemed ready to tackle the majority of playing time.