The San Diego Padres have signed outfielder Austin Hays and optioned infielder Gage Workman to Triple-A El Paso, according to a recent announcement. The move was made on Sunday, as reported by the Associated Press. Hays, a 26-year-old player, joins the Padres after a season with the Baltimore Orioles, where he hit 17 home runs and recorded 73 RBIs. His signing adds depth to the Padres' outfield, which has been a focus area for the team in recent years.
Workman, 24, has spent the majority of his career with the Padres, appearing in 11 games this season. His option to Triple-A El Paso means he will continue to develop with the team’s minor league system. The decision reflects the Padres' strategy to balance immediate contributions with long-term player development.
The Padres' management has emphasized the importance of maintaining a competitive roster while giving younger players opportunities to grow. Hays’ addition is seen as a strategic move to bolster the team’s offensive capabilities. The transaction marks another step in the Padres' ongoing rebuild, focusing on both talent acquisition and player development.
