Austin Hays has emerged as one of the most promising young talents in Major League Baseball (MLB). Known for his power at the plate and defensive skills in the outfield, Hays has become a key player for the Baltimore Orioles. This article delves into Hays’ career statistics, highlighting his journey in professional baseball and providing insights into his performance over the years.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Austin Hays was born on December 5, 1995, in Jacksonville, Florida. He attended Spruce Creek High School, where he showcased his athletic abilities in baseball and football. Hays went on to play college baseball at the University of Jacksonville, where his performance caught the attention of MLB scouts. In the 2016 MLB Draft, Hays was selected in the third round by the Baltimore Orioles, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Minor League Success
Before making his MLB debut, Hays had a successful run in the minor leagues. His time in the minors was crucial for his development as a player. Here are some highlights of his minor league statistics:
- 2016 (GCL Orioles): .333 batting average, 1 home run, 10 RBIs in 15 games.
- 2017 (Delmarva Shorebirds): .329 batting average, 16 home runs, 63 RBIs in 110 games.
- 2017 (Frederick Keys): .285 batting average, 9 home runs, 33 RBIs in 40 games.
- 2018 (Bowie Baysox): .283 batting average, 12 home runs, 40 RBIs in 83 games.
Hays’ minor league performance, especially his ability to hit for both average and power, helped him quickly ascend through the Orioles’ farm system.
MLB Debut and Early Years
Austin Hays made his MLB debut on September 12, 2017, and immediately made an impact. During his rookie season, he played in 51 games, showcasing his potential as a future star. Here are some of his early career statistics:
- 2017: .217 batting average, 3 home runs, 13 RBIs in 51 games.
- 2018: .247 batting average, 6 home runs, 22 RBIs in 96 games.
Despite a rocky start, Hays displayed flashes of brilliance that indicated his potential to develop into a solid player for the Orioles.
2020 Season: A Breakout Year
The 2020 season proved to be a pivotal year for Austin Hays. With the MLB shortened season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hays seized the opportunity to establish himself as a reliable player. His statistics for the 2020 season were impressive:
- 2020: .278 batting average, 6 home runs, 28 RBIs in 58 games.
- On-base Percentage: .328
- Slugging Percentage: .394
Hays’ performance during this season demonstrated his ability to contribute offensively while also showcasing his defensive skills in the outfield.
2021 Season: Continuing to Shine
In 2021, Austin Hays continued to solidify his role with the Orioles. His statistics reflected growth and consistency, further establishing him as an important player in the lineup:
- 2021: .256 batting average, 22 home runs, 71 RBIs in 145 games.
- On-base Percentage: .309
- Slugging Percentage: .432
Hays also demonstrated an improved ability to drive in runs, which was crucial for a team that was in the midst of rebuilding. His versatility in the outfield allowed him to play multiple positions, enhancing his value to the team.
2022 Season: Establishing All-Star Potential
As the 2022 season unfolded, Hays took his game to another level. His performance not only contributed to the team but also caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. Here’s a look at his key statistics from the 2022 season:
- 2022: .267 batting average, 16 home runs, 61 RBIs in 151 games.
- On-base Percentage: .318
- Slugging Percentage: .438
Hays’ improved on-base percentage indicated his ability to get on base more frequently, while his power numbers showed his continued development as a slugger.
Defensive Skills and Outfield Versatility
Austin Hays is not just a hitter; his defensive skills in the outfield are noteworthy. Known for his strong arm and quick reflexes, Hays has established himself as a reliable outfielder. Some highlights of his defensive abilities include:
- Strong Arm: Hays has consistently showcased one of the strongest arms among outfielders, leading to several assists from the outfield.
- Range: His speed and agility allow him to cover significant ground, making him effective in both left and center field.
- Defensive Metrics: His defensive WAR (Wins Above Replacement) has been positive, indicating his contributions to the team’s defense.
Hays’ defensive prowess complements his offensive capabilities, making him an all-around asset for the Orioles.
Future Outlook and Expectations
As of 2023, Austin Hays is poised to continue his upward trajectory in Major League Baseball. With his combination of power, contact hitting, and defensive skills, he has the potential to become an All-Star and a cornerstone player for the Orioles. The team’s commitment to rebuilding around young talent makes Hays’ development crucial for their future success.
Austin Hays has established himself as a significant player for the Baltimore Orioles, showcasing his skills in both hitting and defense. With a solid track record in the minor leagues and impressive statistics in the MLB, Hays has proven that he is a player to watch in the coming years. His journey from a promising prospect to a key player exemplifies the potential of young talent in professional baseball. As he continues to develop, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how he contributes to the Orioles’ ambitions and his pursuit of an All-Star career.
In summary, Austin Hays is not just a player with potential; he is a player in the making, demonstrating the hard work, dedication, and skill necessary to succeed at the highest level of baseball. As he continues to build on his career statistics, Hays will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on his team and the league.