Since joining the Philadelphia Phillies in July, Phillies signing has faced a challenging journey. He’s dealt with a series of injuries, along with a more serious health issue, since donning the Phillies uniform.
He initially landed on the injured list with a hamstring issue, followed by a severe kidney infection that required a long recovery process. He then missed more games on the final weekend of the season due to a back injury. Despite the ups and downs since being traded to the Phillies, Hays is beginning to feel like himself again.
“I feel good. It was pretty scary for a while, not knowing if I’d get rehab games in before the Triple-A season ended,” He said about his kidney infection. “I wasn’t sure if I’d make it back before the season ended. But the fact that I was able to complete a full rehab stint, play some games, and feel great again—getting some good swings and playing solid defense—it’s exciting.” As for his back injury, Hays noted that the five-day break has been beneficial.
Hays is looking forward to the postseason reset for a reason. He’s only played 22 games for the Phillies so far, batting .256 with two home runs, six RBIs, and a .672 OPS. He hasn’t yet had a full opportunity to demonstrate his abilities, particularly against left-handed pitchers.
This season, Hays has excelled against lefties, posting a .354 average and a .941 OPS in 82 at-bats.
“We really believe Hays can hit left-handed pitching,” said Phillies general manager Dave Dombrowski. “I’m very optimistic about it.”
Hays looks poised to get his chance when the Phillies face a left-handed pitcher. When he first arrived, the Phillies aimed to give him regular at-bats in left field, and they may still pursue that plan. The ideal lineup could be Brandon Marsh in left field and Bryson Stott at second base against right-handed pitchers, with Hays in left field and Edmundo Sosa at second base against lefties.
Regardless of his role, Hays will be prepared, which is what matters most for the Phillies.
“Just some fatigue and feeling a little worn out,” Hays said about his recovery process. “I was pushing hard, but we knew that would happen, and we factored it into the plan. I had to work really hard since we had such a short window to get back into game shape. My body definitely feels the strain, but it was exactly what I needed.”
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