One could understand if Rich Hill was looking forward to retirement. The Boston Red Sox pitcher is 42 years old after all, and after going through a last place season, he could easily decide that it is no longer worth the battle.
But that is not the case. According to Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com, not only is Hill looking to pitch again in 2023, but he would “welcome” a return to the Red Sox for next season.
Boston Red Sox could theoretically use Rich Hill in 2023
Hill has put together a relatively solid season. He has posted a 4.41 ERA and a 1.327 WHiP in his 118.1 innings entering Thursday, striking out 103 batters with 36 walks. While those numbers may not stand out, they are perfectly acceptable for a back of the rotation arm.
The Red Sox could theoretically use Hill next season as well. Nick Pivetta is the only given for their rotation in 2023 due to free agency, injury concerns, and the volatility of young pitching, there are plenty of openings available. Hill does live in the Boston area as well, making him a perfect fit for the back of their rotation next year if he wants to stay near his family.
Cotillo also noted that Hill may not pitch an entire season. While he wants to suit up, he is unsure as to whether or not he wants to sign with a contender around the halfway point or go through the entire campaign. Signing partway through the season would allow Hill to spend the rest of the school year with his family before spending the summer on the mound.
That plan would also allow Hill a better option in terms of getting a sense for possible playoff contenders. Despite being in the majors for at least part of every season since 2005, he has yet to appear in a World Series. That is the goal at this point – to finally get to a Fall Classic and hopefully come away with a ring.
Although he will be 43 years old, Rich Hill is planning on pitching again in 2023. The Boston Red Sox veteran starter is not done yet.