Austin Hays shone in his Cincinnati Reds debut, leading the team to an 8-1 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers with two home runs and six RBIs. Signed just weeks ago to a one-year, $5 million contract, Hays showcased his potential as a core player in the Reds' lineup by going 3-for-3 with three runs scored. Even though it was a spring training game, his performance against the defending World Series Champions was particularly noteworthy. Hays' impressive outing included a home run off Dodgers pitcher Tanner Scott, who recently signed a hefty deal worth $72 million. Brady Singer also made a statement in his debut, pitching two shutout innings and striking out four batters.

Austin Hays, the former All-Star outfielder, signed a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Reds worth $5 million, plus potential bonuses up to $500,000 based on plate appearances. Hays hit .275 with 16 homers and 67 RBIs in 2023, and his performance incentives include additional payments for reaching plate appearance thresholds and making the All-Star team again.

Wade Miley also joined the Reds on a minor league pact, where he could earn up to $2.5 million in salary if he makes it to the majors. With 14 seasons under his belt, Miley aims to bounce back from Tommy John surgery after struggling in the previous year.

Austin Hays has inked a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Reds worth $5 million, along with the opportunity to earn up to $500,000 in performance bonuses. Previously an All-Star with the Baltimore Orioles in 2023, Hays had a solid season, hitting .275 with 16 home runs and 67 RBIs. His new deal includes a $12 million mutual option for 2026. The 29-year-old outfielder can earn additional bonuses based on plate appearances and performance accolades, which could further cement his value amidst a competitive league.

Meanwhile, left-hander Wade Miley signed a minor league contract with the Reds, with a potential $2.5 million salary if he makes the major league roster. Miley, who has previously been an All-Star, is recovering from Tommy John surgery and has performance bonuses tied to his innings pitched. As both Hays and Miley look to prove themselves, their contributions could significantly impact the Reds' upcoming season.

Austin Hays has inked a one-year deal with the Cincinnati Reds, featuring a mutual option for 2026. In his recent chat with Lance McAlister on 700 WLW, Hays expressed optimism about the team, stating they are on the verge of a significant turnaround. Having experienced the extremes of a 100-loss and a 100-win season, he emphasized his preference for joining a winning franchise. Hays also opened up about his battle with a kidney infection last season, describing it as a challenging period that tested his resilience. Thankfully, he reported being fully healthy and ready for spring training. The excitement surrounding Terry Francona's appointment as manager also resonated with Hays, noting Francona's exceptional ability to unify a team.

As spring training camps approach, the MLB hot stove is heating up with several notable signings and potential trades. The Los Angeles Dodgers have secured right-handed reliever Kirby Yates on a one-year deal valued at $13 million, plus incentives. Yates, ranked 36th among free agents, is coming off a strong season with a 1.17 ERA, but there are concerns about his durability given his injury history.

Meanwhile, the Houston Astros are considering a reunion with Alex Bregman, although trade discussions are still in the early stages. Astros GM Dana Brown acknowledged internal conversations about acquiring Bregman, who has received multiple offers, but no official outreach to his agent has occurred yet.

Additionally, the New York Mets are facing a standoff with star first baseman Pete Alonso, who declined a three-year deal worth around $68-70 million. The situation may extend into spring training as the Mets seek to resolve their negotiation standoff.

In other news, the Los Angeles Angels are looking to fill multiple bullpen spots, with few players currently guaranteed a role. The Cincinnati Reds have added outfielder Austin Hays to their roster, while the Pittsburgh Pirates have re-signed veteran utility man Adam Frazier, who is returning to the team after a stint away.