Hays signed with the Padres earlier Sunday. He didn't get the start, but he delivered a two-run shot while pinch hitting for Gavin Sheets in the eighth inning. Hays is likely to fill a short-side platoon role in the outfield during his time with the Padres. He is batting .250 with a .676 OPS, two homers, nine RBI, four runs scored, one double and no stolen bases over 13 games between the Padres and the White Sox this season, and he had a .779 OPS over 20 games with Triple-A Charlotte before the White Sox released him.

After the White Sox activated Hays from the 60-day injured list and designated him for assignment Wednesday, he ended up hitting the open market a few days later upon clearing waivers. The Padres will end up bringing Hays aboard on a low-cost deal with the hope that the 31-year-old can fill the short side of a platoon in the corner outfield, and he could even push into an everyday role if he gets hot at the plate to begin his time in the organization. Hays generated a lowly .576 OPS over 44 plate appearances with the White Sox this season but was productive during a recent 11-game rehab stint at Triple-A Charlotte, slashing .279/.289/.605.