Hayes is being reassigned to minor league camp, along with Will Craig, Nick Franklin, Geoff Hartlieb, Ke’Bryan Hayes, Christian Kelley, Arden Pabst, Bryan Reynolds and Brandon Waddell. Infielder Kevin Kramer was also optioned to AAA Indianapolis.
There are now 40 players in camp.
Hayes was having one of the best springs out of any Pirates hitter, slashing .346/.357/.808 with a pair of homers. The Pirates’ top position player prospect may have wowed in Bradenton, but he has never played above AA Altoona, so his chances of making the opening day roster were virtually nonexistent.