The Phillies acquired Hays from the Orioles on Friday in exchange for right-hander Seranthony Dominguez and outfielder Cristian Pache.
It's no secret that Philadelphia has been seeking outfield help, and Hays was available after being squeezed out of an everyday role in Baltimore. The 29-year-old has slashed a disappointing .255/.316/.395 with just three home runs over 175 plate appearances in 2024, but he posted a .275/.325/.444 slash line with 16 homers while making the All-Star team in 2023. His immediate role could be that of a short-side platoon partner for Brandon Marsh, as Hays has slashed .328/.394/.500 this season versus lefties.