San Diego Padres sign OF Austin Hays to a major-league deal

In need of an offensive spark and veteran outfield experience, the San Diego Padres are signing Austin Hays to a major-league deal, a league source told The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal on Sunday. With Samad Taylor still on the IL, Ramón Laureano likely out for the year, and Jase Bowen struggling against big-league pitching, the Padres found themselves in need of a temporary solution.

After a solid season with the Cincinnati Reds last year, Hays signed a one-year, $6 million deal with the Chicago White Sox this past offseason. But injuries have dogged the 31-year-old veteran all year long, limiting him to just 12 games (44 plate appearances). He was designated for assignment Wednesday and released Friday.

When he has been on the field this summer, Hays has struggled to perform. But when he’s healthy and at his best, Hays is a quality right-handed bat, particularly facing lefties. Last season, Hays had a 155 wRC+ against lefties, and for his career he’s at 123. Hays primarily plays left field now, but can also handle right field if needed.