Cincinnati Reds third baseman Ke'Bryan Hayes is one of the best defensive players at the hot corner in all of MLB. The former Pittsburgh Pirates infielder is only 29 years old and has already won two Gold Glove Awards -- one of which came in 2025 between his time with the Pirates and Reds. Hayes recently commented on his strong defensive prowess during an interview, via Yanni Tragellis.

"I'm not a super flashy fielder," Hayes said. "I just like to make the play, it doesn't have to look the prettiest or any of that."

Hayes wants to make each play. He does not care about being flashy or ending up on a highlight reel. If he makes the top 10 plays on any given night, Hayes won't complain. However, that is not his goal. He simply wants to record each out in an effort to help his ball club win baseball games.

"I think the biggest thing for me is how can I slow the game down? I feel like on defense the game can really speed up on you a lot," Hayes continued. 

He went on to explain that making sure you know where to throw the ball on every play is crucial. Understanding the possible outcomes is something he also values on defense. Additionally, Hayes said that knowing who is hitting is important as well. 

If a batter runs well, then he will have to go a little faster while making a play on a ground ball. If it is a slower runner, Hayes will have extra time before having to throw the ball to first. 

In baseball, it is easy for fans to sit back and simply watch a player make a play. For the fielders, though, they have to always be thinking. Understanding where to go with the ball every time is what separates average defenders from great ones. Of course, being able to field the tough plays helps, but Hayes knows that the mental side of the game is pivotal.

Hayes was a highly regarded prospect in Pittsburg with the Pirates. His defense has translated well to the big leagues, but he has had ups and downs from an offensive standpoint. 

In 2025, Hayes appeared in a total of 152 games between the Reds and Pirates. He ultimately hit just .235/.290/.306. 

If Hayes can become at least a respectable hitter, he could certainly become a star given his elite defense. He is not an All-Star player yet given his offensive inconsistency, but Ke'Bryan Hayes is unquestionably one of the best defensive players in the sport. 

Perhaps he will take a step forward from an offensive standpoint soon.