Austin Hays contract: Chicago White Sox agree to 1-year deal with veteran outfielder

The Chicago White Sox have agreed to a one-year deal with veteran outfielder Austin Hays. The team is yet to officially confirm the agreement, which includes performance-based incentives. Reports from multiple sources, including ESPN and the New York Post, indicate the contract is worth $6 million, with additional details like a mutual option for 2027 featuring a $1 million buyout.

Hays started strong, collecting 12 hits in his first 28 at-bats and staying above .300 into late June. He maintained a .500 slugging percentage into the final week of July. His success came largely against fastballs, where he hit .337 with a .709 slugging in 95 plate appearances ending in four-seamers, and .353 with .632 slugging against sinkers in 71 appearances. Overall, he was worth nine runs above average against those pitches but struggled elsewhere, particularly against breaking balls like sliders, sweepers, and curveballs, striking out in nearly one-third of those encounters.

Hays has qualified for the batting title in three seasons with an OPS+ of at least 105, including a 35-double campaign in 2022 and 36 in 2023 with the Orioles, where he earned an All-Star selection. His career highlights prove he can contribute to winning teams when healthy.

The White Sox, aiming to bolster their outfield with reliable options alongside players like Andrew Benintendi, see Hays as a low-risk, high-reward addition who could thrive with everyday at-bats.

This signing provides Chicago with a right-handed power threat who feasts on fastballs and brings postseason pedigree. If he stays healthy, Hays could deliver a significant boost to the lineup in 2026.