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Rich Hill returns to MLB with Kansas City Royals

Rich Hill is called up by the Royals, becoming the oldest player in the league at 45.

July 22, 2025 at 12:12 AM

Rich Hill returning to MLB as a 45-year-old on record 14th team

Rich Hill is back in Major League Baseball after being called up by the Royals.

Rich Hill returns to MLB as oldest player and joins record 14th team

Rich Hill is set to return to Major League Baseball as the oldest player at 45 years old, following his call-up by the Kansas City Royals. This will mark Hill's 14th MLB team, tying him with Edwin Jackson for the most teams in a player's career. After last pitching for the Red Sox in 2024, he has maintained a presence in the league for 21 years, despite not being an All-Star. Hill has seen varied success, including a stellar 2016 season. In recent performances, he has struggled, notably posting a 4.76 ERA in 2023 with the Pirates and facing challenges in 2024 with limited innings for the Red Sox. This season, he pitched in Triple-A for Kansas City, where he has a 5.22 ERA but has potential for a role in the majors due to injuries on the roster.

Key Takeaways

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Rich Hill returns to MLB as the oldest player at 45 years old.

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This marks his 14th team, tying him with Edwin Jackson in MLB history.

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Hill has been in the league for 21 years, debuting in 2005.

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Despite not being an All-Star, he has had impressive seasons, including a 2.12 ERA in 2016.

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His recent ERA numbers show struggles, particularly in minor league performance.

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Injuries to Kansas City's pitchers create opportunities for Hill to play.

"Hill’s ability to adapt and remain competitive speaks volumes about his work ethic."

This highlights Hill's resilience in a sport typically favoring younger players.

"He’ll have played for 14 different MLB teams, tying Edwin Jackson for the most in a career."

This fact showcases Hill's unique position in MLB history.

Rich Hill's return is a fascinating story of longevity in an age when most players retire much earlier. His ability to adapt and remain competitive speaks volumes about his work ethic and the changing dynamics of player health and endurance in sports. As he joins the Royals, there is curiosity around how his experience will impact a team facing challenges with multiple injuries. Hill may not have been an All-Star, but his journey through different teams shows resilience and determination, appealing attributes in a sport that often favors youth.

Highlights

At 45, Rich Hill defies age and keeps chasing the game he loves.
Hill's journey is a testament to resilience and passion in sports.
Returning to the mound, Hill illustrates that age is just a number.
With 14 teams, Hill's career reflects adaptability and persistence.

Potential scrutiny over team performance and age

Rich Hill's age and recent performance raise concerns about whether he can compete effectively. This could lead to public criticism if he underperforms or if the team struggles further.

As the Royals navigate a turbulent season, Hill's experience might bring unexpected advantages.

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mlb rich hill sports royals baseball sports baseball

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