Hays has been on fire since being activated off the IL early this week, and has gone 12-for-28 with three home runs, eight RBI, and seven runs scored in six games. He’s not going to stay this hot all season, but he hits cleanup for the Reds and will play all his home games in one of the best ballparks for offense, so he should be added in most leagues.

Hays’ homer to straight-away center would have left one ballpark. Fortunately, that’s the one the Reds play in, and this was a home game. GABP is a big part of what makes Hays a somewhat intriguing option in mixed leagues. The 20-homer power he showed in Baltimore from 2021-23 is at least 25-homer power while playing in Cincinnati half of the time. That said, we wouldn’t say Hays needs to be picked up immediately. After these next two home games with Seattle, the Reds will head off to Baltimore and Miami for six games. Things should get better for all Reds hitters on Apri. 25, when they begin a three-game series in Coors and follow it with a seven-game homestand.

Gavin Lux remains in left field tonight. Hays, returning from a calf strain, played the outfield in two of his three games at Triple-A Louisville and DH’d in the other. Spencer Steer, who is still struggling offensively while being limited to DH duties by his troublesome shoulder, is taking a seat tonight.