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Rich Hill, at 45, becomes oldest player in majors

Kansas City's Rich Hill returns to the majors as the oldest active player, facing challenges in his first start.

July 23, 2025 at 04:21 AM

Rich Hill, at 45, becomes oldest player in majors with start against Cubs

Rich Hill returns to the majors at age 45, showcasing both experience and challenges on the field.

Rich Hill makes history as oldest active player in MLB

Kansas City's Rich Hill made his major league return on Tuesday night as the oldest active player in baseball, facing the Chicago Cubs. Hill, 45, struggled in his first start since last September, giving up three runs and six hits over five innings. The Cubs won the game 6-0, a result affected by both Hill's performance and defensive mistakes from his teammates. Manager Matt Quatraro praised Hill's effort despite the rough second inning where Hill threw 31 pitches and allowed unearned runs. Hill's start marked the beginning of his 21st major league season and made him the oldest player in Royals history.

Key Takeaways

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Rich Hill debuted at 45, becoming baseball's oldest active player.

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His performance included three runs allowed over five innings.

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Defense errors by the Royals compounded Hill's struggles on the mound.

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Hill matched a record for most major league teams played for with 14.

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Historical perspective: Hill is the oldest player since Jamie Moyer.

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His career highlights include significant postseason experience and a solid record.

"He battled his butt off out there."

Manager Matt Quatraro's assessment of Hill's effort during the game reflects his resilience.

"It's easy to say that you love it, but when you know you have more to give, it's tough to walk away."

Rich Hill's sentiment emphasizes his passion for the game and desire to continue competing.

Rich Hill's return to the majors at age 45 is a testament to his remarkable resilience and passion for baseball. While his performance against the Cubs was not stellar, it highlights a deeper narrative in sports: the value of experience. In an era where youth often dominates, Hill's presence serves as a reminder that dedication and love for the game can persist against the odds. As he navigates this season, baseball fans and analysts will be watching closely, eager to see if he can inspire a new generation while defying age-related expectations.