With few established deadline sellers causing the price of pitching to skyrocket, a 44-year-old free agent could represent a key midsummer addition for one team. According to Robert Murray of FanSided, veteran pitcher Rich Hill is looking to sign with a team at some point this season.
Some notes from the All-Star Game on Garrett Crochet, Jazz Chisholm, the trade market and Rich Hill. https://t.co/SZ6fHbiotG
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) July 16, 2024
It’s unclear when Hill is looking to sign, but he likely wants to join a playoff contender. For him to be eligible to play in the playoffs, he must sign no later than August 31.
Rich Hill Looking To Sign in 2024
At 44, Hill is clearly past his prime. He largely struggled last year with the Pittsburgh Pirates and the San Diego Padres. In 32 games, Hill tossed 146 1/3 innings with a 5.41 ERA (81 ERA+) and a poor strikeout rate.
Despite the overall struggles, Hill could still offer some value. He had decent success with his sinker last year and has one of the most iconic and effective curveballs of this generation.
Additionally, he clearly represented a threat to left-handed batters. His numbers against lefties aren’t necessarily inspiring, but they are better than his performance against righties. Plus, a small sample size likely makes the numbers look worse than they are in reality.
Hill faced 532 right-handers last year compared to just 128 lefties. It’s clear that opposing teams did not want him facing their lefty hitters. So, a team might look to sign Hill this season with the idea of using him out of the bullpen.
Rich Hill seals the win
Rich Hill tosses a scorless 11th, as he strikes out Trayce Thompson to secure the Padres’ 2-1 win
Padres @ White Sox#BringTheGold | October 1, 2023 pic.twitter.com/35MxfmhNV9
— San Diego Strong (@PadresStrong) October 1, 2023
In this scenario, Hill’s team can have more control over who he is facing. This would ensure he pitches against more lefties than righties, thus utilizing him in the most effective fashion.
If Hill signs with a contender, he will only need to pitch for at most three months. His time off likely allowed him to fully rest, recover, and train. At his age, it’s possible he doesn’t have the stamina to last an entire season. But, maybe he has enough in the tank to be his best self for two or three months.
A team that signs Hill will acquire a pitcher established in high-pressure situations. Whether it is October baseball or playing in big markets, there is clearly nothing Hill can’t mentally handle. Teams that are especially keen on not trading away big prospect hauls this summer will seriously look into signing the veteran.
Photo Credit: © David Frerker-USA TODAY Sports
