Orioles Trade Austin Hays to Phillies in Exchange for Domínguez and Pache

In a notable move among division leaders, the Baltimore Orioles have traded outfielder Austin Hays to the Philadelphia Phillies. In return, the Orioles received reliever Seranthony Domínguez and outfielder Cristian Pache.

The Phillies have been actively searching for an outfielder who can boost their offense from the right side, especially as the Trade Deadline approaches. Hays, who is 29 years old, fits this role well.

This season, Hays made the American League All-Star team, boasting a solid .260 batting average with a .313 on-base percentage and .435 slugging percentage. Over the past few seasons, he has hit 57 home runs in 483 games, showing his ability to contribute offensively.

Compared to Pache, who is known for his defensive skills but has struggled offensively with a meager .179 batting average and .515 OPS, Hays is undoubtedly a significant upgrade.

From the Orioles’ standpoint, trading Hays opens up opportunities for younger players like Heston Kjerstad to take on more playing time.

In the deal, Baltimore also acquired Domínguez, a right-handed reliever with closing experience. The 29-year-old has a career 3.55 ERA and 10.3 strikeouts per nine innings over six seasons with the Phillies. Although he has a 4.75 ERA this season, his ability to throw hard and his effective slider make him a valuable addition.

Hays is expected to serve as a platoon partner for the Phillies in left field, as he has demonstrated strong performance against left-handed pitchers this season, hitting .328 with an .894 OPS.

This trade allows the Phillies to strengthen their roster while still retaining some prospect capital for further trades. It appears that both teams have made moves that better fit their current needs as they continue their push for a championship.