The Padres signed outfielder Austin Hays on Sunday, optioning infielder Gage Workman to Triple‑A El Paso. Hays has missed most of the season with hamstring and calf injuries, appearing in only 12 games for the Chicago White Sox before being designated for assignment.

The 31‑year‑old Hays is batting .233 with one homer and seven RBI. Manager Craig Stammed praised him as a "good right‑handed bench bat" who has performed well against left‑handed pitching and can fill in left‑field duties.

Workman, who has spent time with the Padres' Double‑A squad, will continue developing in El Paso while the team evaluates roster spots for the stretch run. The move clears a spot for Hays' veteran presence in the lineup.

This addition underscores the Padres’ strategy of bolstering depth with experienced players who can contribute immediately, especially in high‑pressure games where a reliable bench bat can shift momentum.