Red Sox ‘close’ to finalizing minor-league deal with veteran southpaw
There are three guarantees in life: death, taxes, and Rich Hill pitching for the Boston Red Sox.
The veteran left-hander is reportedly close to finalizing a minor-league deal with the Red Sox, per Audacy’s Rob Bradford.
The 44-year-old, who has previously pitched for the Red Sox in 2011, 2012, 2015, and 2022, will return for another run with the organization as they make a push towards the postseason.
Following the Red Sox’ 5-1 loss to the Orioles on Thursday night, skipper Alex Cora told reporters, that he “just found out” a deal was close, per MassLive’s Chris Cotillo.
Hill hosted a showcase for MLB teams in Waltham late last week and impressed various scouts across the league, including Boston. The club is in need of additional starting pitching depth after losing left-hander James Paxton to a right calf tear.
The Milton native last pitched in the big leagues last season, splitting time between the Pirates and the Padres. He posted a 5.41 ERA in 32 games (27 starts) over 146 1/3 innings.
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Hill had major league offers available to him last winter, including from the reigning World Series champion Rangers, Cotillo also reported on Thursday. Instead, Hill decided to coach his 12-year-old son, Brice, in Little League. The lefty recently traveled with his son to Cooperstown while garnering interest from teams around the league.
"I've only seen Brice play four games over the last three years or whatever,” said Hill to MLB.com’s Ian Browne back in May. “Getting the opportunity, knowing that it was his last year of Little League, that's something that you can't get back."
Once Hill signs, the expectation is he will end up with the WooSox as he gets into game shape before joining the Red Sox. He should be an option along with Cooper Criswell for the No. 5 spot in the rotation.
