What's Happening?
The New York Yankees are exploring the possibility of signing Austin Hays, a former outfielder for the Baltimore Orioles, as they await a decision from their primary target, Cody Bellinger. According to
MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Yankees have reached out to Hays, who is currently a free agent. Hays, 30, has a career batting average of .262 with 66 home runs and 242 RBIs over eight MLB seasons. He played for the Cincinnati Reds in 2025, achieving a .266 average with 15 home runs and 64 RBIs. Hays is noted for his strong performance against left-handed pitchers, making him a potential platoon option for the Yankees. Meanwhile, the New York Mets are involved in trade discussions, particularly interested in acquiring Ketel Marte from the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Mets have already traded Jeff McNeil, creating a vacancy at second base, and are considering young pitchers Jonah Tong and Brandon Sproat as part of the trade negotiations.
Why It's Important?
The Yankees' interest in Austin Hays highlights their need for a reliable outfielder as they face uncertainty with Cody Bellinger's free agency status. Securing Hays could provide the Yankees with a solid backup plan, ensuring they have a capable player to fill the outfield position. For the Mets, acquiring Ketel Marte could significantly strengthen their infield, especially after trading Jeff McNeil. Marte's potential addition would bring experience and versatility to the team, which is crucial as they aim to enhance their roster for the upcoming season. These moves reflect the strategic planning of both New York teams as they navigate the complexities of the MLB offseason, aiming to bolster their lineups and improve their competitive edge.
What's Next?
The Yankees will continue to monitor Cody Bellinger's situation while keeping Austin Hays as a viable option. If Bellinger remains unsigned, the Yankees may expedite their negotiations with Hays to secure his services. For the Mets, the focus will be on finalizing a trade for Ketel Marte. The Diamondbacks' demand for young pitching talent could see Jonah Tong and Brandon Sproat becoming key components of the deal. Both teams are expected to make decisive moves as the offseason progresses, with potential announcements likely in the coming weeks as they finalize their rosters for the next MLB season.
