Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona had high praise for Ke’Bryan Hayes following the team’s trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates, calling Hayes possibly “the best defender in Major League Baseball.”
Hayes, now locked in with the Reds for the next five years thanks to his current contract, is expected to play a major role in the team’s plans moving forward. Francona addressed the acquisition, emphasizing how Hayes fits into the Reds’ emphasis on solid, fundamental play.
“Terry Francona noted Hayes is the third baseman and might be the best defender in the league,” reported Charlie Goldsmith on X (formerly Twitter). “Francona also mentioned the team has stressed playing clean baseball all year. Adding Hayes strengthens that identity. This isn’t a team that hits a ton of home runs, but they just improved.”
While Hayes is known primarily for his elite defense, he’s no liability at the plate. Though he doesn’t provide much power, he contributes as a contact hitter capable of driving in runs. This season, Hayes is hitting .236 with a .279 on-base percentage, tallying 87 hits, two home runs, and 36 RBIs.
With both Hayes and Noelvi Marte now in the infield, the Reds are positioning themselves for a strong second-half push. MLB insider Jon Morosi reported the front office isn’t done yet:
“Ke’Bryan Hayes traded to Cincinnati, and the Reds are not done yet. I’m told the Reds are working to add pitching before Thursday’s trade deadline,” Morosi shared on X.
Currently sitting at 56-52 and third in the NL Central behind the Cubs and Brewers, the Reds face a tough climb in the division but remain firmly in the Wild Card race as they push for a playoff berth.
