Austin Hays Powers Reds to Victory in Long-Awaited 2025 Cincinnati Debut

A Triumphant Return to the Field

Austin Hays finally made his highly anticipated 2025 regular season debut for the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday, returning to action after missing the team’s first 16 games due to a left calf strain.

Impressive Debut Performance

Hays made an immediate impact in the Reds’ 8-4 comeback victory over the Mariners, going 2-for-4 with four RBIs, including a decisive three-run home run against Luis Castillo during a fourth-run fifth inning that put Cincinnati ahead. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, Hays became just the third Reds player in history to record four RBIs in his team debut since RBI became an official stat in 1920.

Journey to Cincinnati

Hays, 29, joined the Reds as their lone major position player addition via free agency this winter, signing a one-year, $5 million contract. The 2023 All-Star had faced challenges in 2024 while playing for Baltimore and Philadelphia, dealing with injuries including an early-season calf strain and a serious kidney infection late in the year.

Strong Spring Training Performance

Coming into 2025, Hays showed promising signs during Spring Training, appearing healthy and motivated for a comeback season with his new club. He demonstrated his potential by batting .310 with three home runs and leading the team with 14 RBIs across 16 spring games.

Looking Ahead

The Reds organization has expressed confidence in Hays’ ability to contribute significantly, with expectations that he can “do damage in the middle of our lineup.” His teammates have praised his capabilities, noting his impressive spring performance and acknowledging him as “a really good player” who fills an important role in the lineup.