Reds’ Hays and Lux Shine Early in Season Amid Trade Market Challenges

CINCINNATI, Ohio — Early in the offseason, the Cincinnati Reds recognized they were in a sellers’ market for trades.

As free agent hitters landed big contracts, the Reds sought to enhance their offense with creative strategies. Their acquisitions of Austin Hays and Gavin Lux have shown promising results as the season progresses.

Entering this weekend’s series against the Colorado Rockies, Hays boasts a batting average of .361, while Lux follows closely at .316. Hays, an All-Star in 2023, overcame a kidney infection that hampered his performance last year.

“I feel like myself,” Hays said. “It was a long road to recovery. Finally getting back on the field feels so good.”

While the Reds’ offense has yet to fully gel, Hays has been placed in the cleanup spot by manager Terry Francona. “Hays is a middle-of-the-order type of guy. He’s capable of hitting it out of the park at any moment,” first baseman Spencer Steer said.

Hays has proven to be a valuable asset, earning consistent playing time instead of a potential platoon role he might have started with. Reds president of baseball operations Nick Krall praised his contributions, stating, “He gives you a professional at-bat and knows how to play.”

Lux, who typically hits behind Hays in the lineup, has adjusted smoothly to new positions despite his background as a second baseman and shortstop. The Los Angeles Dodgers had discarded him, yet the Reds recognized his potential, especially following a strong second half in the previous season.

“If he can come close to what he did offensively last year, you’ve got a really good player,” Krall said.

Lux has focused on being selective at the plate while remaining aggressive. “I’m being selective on what I know I can do damage on,” he noted.

Throughout the early season, Hays and Lux have provided strong performances, while other offseason signings, including catchers Jose Trevino and Austin Wynns, have also excelled. Trevino and Wynns form one of baseball’s top catching duos, helping to mitigate the loss of Tyler Stephenson, who is recovering from an oblique injury.

“Both of our catchers have been fantastic,” Francona said. “They have really done a great job.”

As the Reds move forward, their combination of recent additions and recovering players could lead to a brighter season ahead.