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The Yankees have exercised their option on lefty reliever Tim Hill.
November 26, 2024 By  MLB, New York Yankees

Yankees Late Inning Reliever Could Provide Value In Free Agency

New York Yankees veteran bullpen pitcher Tim Hill established himself as a noteworthy bull piece for the Yankees during the postseason. His success in the postseason will make him an appealing free agent for teams in search of left-handed relievers. Hill put up a 1.08 ERA and three strikeouts across 10 appearances in the postseason. During the regular season, Hill sported a 4-0 record with a 3.36 ERA with 31 strikeouts across 67 innings pitched in the regular season. Hill played for Palomar College in 2010, where he demonstrated exceptional talent. Before joining the Yankees in the 2024 season, Hill made his MLB debut with the Kansas City Royals in 2018. He then ventured off to the San Diego Padres in 2020 until 2023.

Yankees Late Inning Reliever Could Provide Value In Free Agency

Lastly, he joined the Chicago White Sox in December of 2023 and was signed by the Yankees in June of this past season. His college baseball career with Palomar was the groundwork for Hill’s future success. It has molded him into an impressive late-inning reliever. His time spent with the Padres showcased him as a productive and valuable arm. Hill’s story is also inspirational as he battled colon cancer, showcasing his resiliency. Overall, Hill is a positive role model and solid reliever who illustrates tenacity and overcoming adversity. His voyage from college baseball to being in the World Series will be a cherished memory for the 34-year-old.

Potential Landing Spots For Hill

New York Yankees

While Hill is a free agent, rejoining the Yankees for the 2025 season is highly probable. This is because of his success in the regular 2024 season, especially in October baseball for the Yankees. With the prosperity he has showcased, Hill will be looking at a multi-year deal worth $4–7 million per season. However, whether the Yankees will be able to offer Hill the full price is questionable. Simultaneously, the Yankees are also slim and have effective left-handers. It will be a tough decision for the Yankees to make.

Boston Red Sox

The Red Sox are in search of left-handed relievers. Hill has many strong qualities as a left-handed reliever, including his effective follow-through. His body movement and his release when he pitches have been highlighted as one of the best. The Red Sox recently lost left-handed reliever Bailey Horn as he was claimed off waivers by the Detroit Tigers. In addition, Isaiah Campbell and Bryan Mata are also free agents.

Philadelphia Phillies

The Phillies are another team that is in dire need of left-handed bullpen pitchers. The Phillies have already been targeting top left-handed reliever Tanner Scott. However, Scott is, without question, in high demand, so having other options to explore with left-handed relievers is significant. The Phillies finished first in the NL East this past season but fell short in the postseason. With Hill’s success in the postseason, he could be an intriguing option to explore.

Main Photo Credits: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

 

About Vanessa Serrao

Vanessa is a freelance baseball writer for Last Word On Baseball. She is also an author and is pursuing a career in sports journalism. She loves the Toronto Blue Jays, but covers MLB breaking news.