Reds manager Terry Francona shared some news about outfielder Austin Hays following the team’s recent loss to the Guardians, and it’s raising a few eyebrows among Reds fans. Earlier in the week, there was chatter from Jim Day about the Reds’ hopes to have Hays back in the lineup by Tuesday or Wednesday, but that didn’t quite pan out.
Francona revealed, “He went and got another MRI. We want to be respectful to him. He is trying so hard to get out there and he still feels it. It shows he has a pretty deep bone bruise, that I think we knew. We will watch him over the weekend and see how he’s doing. He is still probably day-to-day.” It’s the kind of update that doesn’t exactly scream optimism for those eager to see Hays back in action.
Hays has been a key player for the Reds, with a strong .303 batting average alongside six homers in just 31 games this season. When he’s on the field, he’s the epitome of consistency in their lineup. Unfortunately, staying on the field has been the challenge for Hays this year, as injuries have been a recurring hurdle.
As the Reds assess their options and monitor Hays’ progress over the coming days, fans are surely hoping for a speedy recovery for one of their standout hitters. For now, it remains a waiting game, with all eyes on how Hays’ condition evolves.
