Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
The Blue Jays officially missed out on their "perfect fit" outfield target today, as Austin Hays chose to sign with the Chicago White Sox on a one-year deal.
It is a head-scratcher of a decision that sees a solid veteran choose a rebuilding squad over a legitimate World Series contender.
Reports confirm the deal is worth $6 million plus incentives, which was well within Toronto's price range.
White Sox, OF Austin Hays reportedly agree to 1-year deal, per multiple sources including @MLBNetwork insider @JonHeyman
Austin Hays (Drafted Round 3, 2016 by Orioles) seemed destined for an AL East reunion.
He fits the Blue Jays' needs like a glove: a right-handed bat who mashes lefties and plays gritty defense.
Instead, he heads to the South Side of Chicago, presumably for guaranteed playing time.
It stings because the financial commitment was minimal.
For a guy who hit 15 homers and drove in 64 runs for the Reds last year, $6 million is a bargain in this market.
Ross Atkins must pivot immediately
This "swing and a miss" leaves a glaring hole in left field.
With Daulton Varsho entering a contract year and Anthony Santander’s health always a question mark, relying solely on internal options is risky.
Addison Barger showed flashes in the playoffs, but handing him an everyday job without a safety net is a gamble.
The market is thinning out fast.
We know the front office is still hunting for outfield help, potentially looking at trade targets like Steven Kwan to fill the void.
Losing Hays to a 102-loss team like the White Sox is a tough pill to swallow for fans expecting an aggressive finish to the offseason.
It forces the question: did we simply get outbid, or did we not value him enough?
Either way, the pressure is now on Atkins to find Plan B before pitchers and catchers report.
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Incredible 3-for-1 trade offer announced with Fernando Tatis Jr waiving no-trade clause for Toronto
Previously on Toronto Baseball Insider