The Philadelphia Phillies are in agreement to acquire outfielder Austin Hays from the AL East-leading Baltimore Orioles for right-handed pitcher Seranthony Domínguez and outfielder Cristian Pache.
Hays made his major league debut for the Orioles in 2017 at the age of 21. The 29-year-old developed into an all-star caliber player in 2023, a season in which he slashed .275/.325/.444 with 16 home runs, 36 doubles, and 67 RBI. The left fielder is having somewhat of a down year slashing .255/.316/.395 with only three home runs and 14 RBI in 175 plate appearances. However, he’s battled some injuries and hasn’t been an everyday player due to a crowded Baltimore outfield. Hays will enter a platoon role with outfielder Brandon Marsh in left field. This will give manager Rob Thomson a better option against lefties.
It’s not often you see a trade between two World Series contenders at the deadline. This is a win-win deal that should benefit both teams moving forward.
What Did it Take for Phillies to Acquire Hays?
The Phillies have parted ways with Domínguez and Pache. Domínguez appeared in 230 games with the Phillies since 2018 and was once considered a big piece in the bullpen for the future. The right-hander was never able to fully live up to his potential in Philadelphia, but he did show flashes. The Orioles are taking a chance on a very talented pitcher, hoping a change of scenery is all he needs.
Pache joined the Phillies in 2023, but he’s never been more than a bench player. The 25-year-old slashed .218/.302/.335 with two home runs and 20 RBI in 98 games with the Phillies. The once highly touted prospect will join an Orioles team that already has a plethora of outfield options.
What’s Next for the Phillies Before the Deadline?
The July 30 deadline is rapidly approaching, and the Phillies may not be done making moves. There were rumors leading up to the deadline about finding a right-handed bat to platoon in left field before the Hays deal was made. The NL East leaders have also been rumored to be looking into upgrading the center field position as well as pitching. It’ll be a busy next few days for Dave Dombrowski.
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