After a slow start to the season, Austin Hays went to the IL with a calf strain. But since returning, he has played like an All-Star again. Entering the 2023 season, Austin Hays knew it would be a make-or-break year for him. Hays played like his career was on the line, earning a starting nod in the All-Star game. He seemed to have cemented his future with the Orioles. However, Hays got off to a terrible start in 2024, even noting how “it’s pretty much the opposite of last year.” Hays went on the injured list after posting a .088 Batting Average in April. Hays did not return for about a month. But since his return, Hays is 10-34 and has hit the ball a lot harder, signaling that he may be back to All-Star form.
Scuffling Oriole All-Star Has Turned His Season Around
Austin Hays is 10-for-34 (.294) since returning from injury, including a double as part of his two hits today
— Andy Kostka (@afkostka) June 2, 2024
Austin Hays has the tools to produce for the Orioles; it’s just a matter of whether he will continue to do so.
How Hays Has Rebounded
Hays start to the 2024 season is one to forget. He did not collect an extra-base hit in March or April. He also drove in only two runs during his 50 plate appearances to start the year. Amidst this huge slump, Hays got injured and was forced to miss nearly a month. Although an injury generally is not a good thing, this injury certainly helped Hays hit the rest button. After some solid rehab outings, including 2 home runs, Hays was reinstated from the IL on May 13. In his first two at-bats back from the IL, both as a pinch hitter, Hays went 2-2 with two doubles. Those positive at-bats earned Hays some starts,, and he began to play like his 2023 self again, hitting a .267 batting average in May.
This rebound is a great sign for the Orioles, who need Hays to be a consistent option as they battle for the American League East.
The Orioles Outfield Stockpile
With Hays returning to his excellent play, the Orioles seem to have too many playable outfielders. Hays and Anthony Santander, despite both having slow starts, have both recently played much better baseball. It’s been hard to justify taking Colton Cowser out of the lineup as he puts on a rookie-of-the-year level season. Additionally, Kyle Stowers, a top prospect for the Orioles, has shined in his opportunities and continues to earn more playing time. That’s already four very good options, and including former All-Star Cedric Mullins gives the Orioles 5 different guys to choose from. This is a very good problem for the Orioles to have. However, it forces players like Austin Hays, who are used to starting every day, into a platoon role, which may be new for them.
Where Austin Hays Fits The Best
It may be best for Hays to remain in the platoon role he has been in since his return. In 2023, Hays took a step back in the second half after a torrid first half. That may have been due to fatigue because the long MLB season. Since Hays has regained his stride this year, they can preserve him, and he will become extremely valuable down the stretch. Also, Hays is an excellent fielder, and having his glove as a possible defensive replacement is extremely useful. Although platooning may be a change from what Austin Hays is used to, he knows that when it matters, he will step up for the Orioles.
Main Photo Credits: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
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