After nearly two decades and playing for over a dozen teams since his big league debut, Rich Hill is back in the majors. The Boston Red Sox have selected the 44-year-old lefty from Triple-A Worcester in hopes of adding more history to his already lengthy career. If Hill makes just one appearance in 2024, he will become the only active player to have played in a game in each of the past 20 seasons. Manager Alex Cora expressed his excitement about Hill’s return, emphasizing his physical conditioning and dedication to his craft.
With the Red Sox dealing with injuries in their pitching staff, it remains unclear how they will utilize Hill and where he will fit in. However, Cora mentioned that Hill is willing to contribute in any way the team needs him to. Wearing the No. 44 on his uniform, Hill could potentially join former teammate Tim Wakefield as one of the few pitchers to play for the Red Sox at the age of 44 or older. Wakefield, who last pitched at the age of 45, holds the club record in this regard.
Rich Hill’s Career
This marks Hill’s fourth stint with the Red Sox, having signed a minor league deal with the team in August. Born in Boston, Hill has played for a total of 13 major league teams, just one short of Edwin Jackson’s record. Throughout his career, he has accumulated a record of 90-73 with a 4.01 ERA in 382 games, with 248 of those being starts. Hill has had previous stints with the Red Sox from 2010 to 2012, then again in 2015 and 2022. He spent the last season playing for the Pittsburgh Pirates and San Diego Padres. Hill initially debuted with the Chicago Cubs in 2005 and has since played for various teams including Baltimore, Cleveland, Oakland, the Angels, Yankees, Dodgers, Twins, Rays, and Mets.
In light of pitching injuries, the Red Sox have placed right-handed relievers Luis García (elbow inflammation) and Lucas Sims (right lat strain) on the 15-day injured list. Meanwhile, Greg Weissert and Josh Winckowski have been recalled from Worcester, and Brad Keller has been designated for assignment.
As Rich Hill prepares to make his return to the majors, his experience and longevity in the game will undoubtedly provide valuable insight and depth to the Red Sox pitching staff. Fans will be intrigued to see how Hill’s story unfolds as he continues to defy age and expectations in the world of professional baseball.
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