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The NL Central Division is chasing after the same free agent outfielder right now.
The Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds and St. Louis Cardinals aren't alone, either, in their pursuit of Austin Hays.
MLB insider Jon Heyman reports that these seven teams have been interested in Hays:
- Cubs
- Reds
- Cardinals
- Rangers
- White Sox
- Tigers
- Padres
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Heyman added in his report that "Hays is said to be deciding this weekend where he will sign."
Only a few weeks out from spring training, it makes sense for Hays to finally make up his mind.
Someone will still be getting a useful outfielder with power and speed, while the other teams will have to find a last-minute alternative to whatever role they would have planned for Hays.
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Hays spent the 2025 season with the Reds and put up a .768 OPS.
A right-handed hitter, Hays is particularly adept at batting against left-handed pitching. He also can play any of the outfield spots.
There's certainly a spot for Hays on any of the above rosters. But only one team can get him, and it could be a key, under-the-radar move in positioning for the playoffs as this season goes along.
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