Austin Hays knows what it takes to compete at a high level. During his time in Baltimore, he played alongside a talented young core with sky-high expectations.
However, facing major-league pitching was a humbling experience that helped shape his game. Now with the Cincinnati Reds, Hays sees a similar situation unfolding.
In an interview with Charlie Goldsmith, Hays recalled how facing Orioles pitchers in live at-bats became a “turning point” for Baltimore’s emerging stars. He believes the Reds have a comparable opportunity, especially with their group of electric young arms.
Echoing veteran Wade Miley’s sentiments, Hays praised Cincinnati’s pitching prospects, noting that their presence will raise the level of competition as workouts ramp up in Goodyear.
Austin Hays praised the Reds’ young pitchers, likening the squad to his former Orioles teammates
Hays’ praise should provide some reassurance to Reds fans following the disappointing injury news about Andrew Abbott and Rhett Lowder.
His comments suggest that key pitchers who are fully participating in live batting practice, like Hunter Greene, are already in midseason form. Fortunately, Cincinnati has a deep reservoir of pitching prospects to step up while their regulars continue rehabbing.
The comparisons to the Orioles didn’t stop with the pitching staff. Hays likened the current Reds squad to the 2022 Orioles, a team that saw a remarkable 30-game improvement from the previous season.
Like Cincinnati, that Baltimore team relied heavily on youth, particularly on the mound—only four of the 35 pitchers who appeared for the O’s were 30 or older. If the Reds can follow a similar trajectory, it bodes well for their playoff aspirations. The Orioles built on their breakout year and went on to win the AL East in 2023.
Hays also has personal reasons to reflect on his time in Baltimore. His 2024 season was derailed by illness, stalling what had once been a promising career. If he can recapture his previous form, he could play a pivotal role in Cincinnati’s push for success in 2025.
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