Reports: Padres sign free-agent OF Austin Hays

Mar 13, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Chicago White Sox outfielder Austin Hays against the Chicago Cubs during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The San Diego Padres signed free-agent outfielder Austin Hays to a major league contract and will add him to the active roster after he was let go by the Chicago White Sox, multiple outlets reported Sunday. Hays, 31, was batting.233 with one home run and seven RBIs over 12 games for the White Sox this season. He had missed three months with a left calf strain and was designated for assignment immediately after being activated from the injured list. Hays batted .250 with six home runs and 17 RBIs during a 20-game rehab assignment with Triple-A Charlotte. The Padres have outfielder Samad Taylor on the injured list, as well as infielder/outfielder Miguel Andujar. In addition, outfielder Ramon Laureano is expected to miss the remainder of the season after undergoing hip surgery in June. --Field Level Media