Archive · 1 Feb 2026
White Sox Sign Austin Hays to 1-Year Deal
The Chicago White Sox have agreed to a 1-year deal with Austin Hays, a veteran outfielder.
The contract is worth $6 million and includes performance-based incentives.
Hays had a good season last year, hitting 15 home runs and 64 RBIs, despite missing some games due to injuries.
He is known for his strong arm in the outfield and has played in the postseason for the last three years.
The White Sox hope he can help their team improve, especially with everyday playing time.
The deal also includes a mutual option for 2027 with a $1 million buyout.
Chicago White Sox agree to a 1-year, $6 million deal with outfielder Austin Hays, including performance-based incentives and a mutual option for 2027.
Hays posted a .266 batting average, 15 home runs, and 64 RBIs in 103 games last season, despite missing 59 games due to injuries.
He excelled against fastballs, hitting .337 with a .709 slugging percentage against four-seamers and .353 with a .632 slugging against sinkers.
Hays has a strong defensive arm, ranked in the 88th percentile, and has postseason experience with three different teams in the last three years.
The White Sox see Hays as a low-risk, high-reward addition to bolster their outfield alongside players like Andrew Benintendi.
- Who
- Austin Hays and the Chicago White Sox
- What
- Signed a 1-year contract with performance-based incentives
- When
- Details not specified, but agreement reported recently
- Where
- Chicago, Illinois
- Why
- To bolster the outfield with a reliable, experienced player
- Player
- Austin Hays
- Team
- Chicago White Sox
- Contract Duration
- 1 year
- Contract Value
- $6 million
- Performance Incentives
- Yes
- 2027 Option
- Mutual option with $1 million buyout
- 2023 Batting Average
- .266
- 2023 Home Runs
- 15
- 2023 RBIs
- 64
- 2023 OPS
- .768