TOP CONTENDERS MAKE A TRADE
The Philadelphia Phillies acquired outfielder Austin Hays from the Baltimore Orioles for pitcher Seranthony Dominguez and outfielder Cristian Pache.
What does it give the Philadelphia Phillies
For the Phillies, they decided to use their depth in the bullpen to address a weakness in the outfield. Hays has not produced offensively like he did in his all-star season of 2023, but he still boasts a .328 average against left-handed pitchers this year. Expect him to form a platoon in left field with Brandon Marsh. Already the best team in the majors this season, Philly is adding Hays as a perfect addition for a team looking to win it all.
What does it give the Baltimore Orioles
With so many young outfielders like Colton Cowser and Heston Kjerstad pushing through, Hays was not getting enough playing time. Bringing in Dominguez helps add some strikeout ability to the back end of the Baltimore bullpen. He can be wild at times, but he is a great late-inning reliever when he is locked in. His fastball averages around 97mph. Pache gives the Orioles a defense-first outfielder who can be used in late-game situations.
Fantasy impact
This season, Hays has not offered anything close to the fantasy value he provided in 2023. Now in Philly, he could remain a role player. Most of his at-bats could be against left-handers, so he could be a streaming option on occasion (but his value is greater on the actual Phillies roster). Dominguez will be in the setup mix with in Baltimore. Matchups will dictate opportunities. Wait and see when and how Dominguez pitches before adding him. Pache offers very little with the bat. He has no fantasy value.
