HAYES HEADS TO CINCINNATI
The Cincinnati Reds acquired infielder Ke'Bryan Hayes from the Pittsburgh Pirates for pitcher Taylor Rogers, infielder Sammy Stafura and cash.
What does it give the Cincinnati Reds
In Hayes, the Reds bring in an elite defensive third baseman. The 28-year-old has struggled at the plate the past few seasons, but can he put the ball in play and steal bases. Hayes comes with several years of team control, too, so he should be a fixture at third base for seasons to come. Cincinnati may now choose to move Noelvi Marte to the outfield long term.
What does it give the Pittsburgh Pirates
Despite his Gold Glove-winning defense, Hayes never lived up to expectations in Pittsburgh. Still, the return from Cincinnati is interesting. The Pirates get Rogers, a veteran reliever having a good season. They might end up moving him for more assets before the trade deadline. As for Stafura, he was one of Cincinnati's better infield prospects. The 2023 second-round pick is a base-stealer with a good eye at the plate. He adds much-needed talent to their prospects on offense.
Fantasy impact
This trade could help Hayes, as he will now play home games in hitter-friendly Cincinnati. Even so, his value should remain limited to deep fantasy leagues. Rogers would benefit if he takes on a late-inning role with the Pirates. While Stafura will be a player to keep an eye on as he gets closer to the big leagues.