A Massachusetts local is making waves as he nears a return to his hometown team after a stint with the San Diego Padres and a year off. Rich Hill, at 44 years old, could soon become MLB’s oldest active player.
Last Friday, Hill showcased his skills in Massachusetts, and per Rob Bradford of WEEI, it looks like he might be donning a Red Sox jersey once again.
Reports indicate that the Boston Red Sox are on the verge of offering Hill a minor league contract.
During the showcase, Hill was asked if he believed he could still deliver a solid performance at the major league level in 2024. “Six innings, three runs? Yeah,” Hill replied with confidence. “I feel 100% convicted by that.”
If he takes the mound this year, it will mark his 20th MLB season. Since his debut in 2005, Hill has played for 13 teams, with the Red Sox being his most frequent employer.
His tenure with Boston includes multiple contracts in 2010, 2011, 2014, 2015, and again in 2022.
With a career ERA of 4.01 over 1,405.1 innings, Hill had a challenging 2023 season, winding up with a combined 5.41 ERA from 32 appearances across the Padres and Pittsburgh Pirates.
Prior to his recent showcase, both the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers had shown interest in Hill, in addition to the Minnesota Twins.
However, staying close to family seems to be a priority for Hill. Earlier this year, he was spotted coaching his son’s Little League team in Milton, hinting at his desire to prioritize home life during his career.
He noted, “I’ve only seen Brice play four games over the last three years. With this being his last year of Little League, it’s something you can’t get back.”
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The Red Sox may be looking to bolster their rotation after acquiring James Paxton, who has since suffered an injury that potentially sidelines him for the rest of the season.
Hill’s potential reunion with Boston seems practical, as they could benefit from his experience while he aims to showcase that his veteran know-how can still compete in a league filled with young talent.