The Baltimore Orioles have been signing stopgap options thus far in the offseason as they are looking to take the next step toward contending. In theory, this will keep the Orioles from blocking their prospects, but it is fair to wonder how much of a difference these one year deals will make.
The same questions are true about the Orioles’ most recent target of interest. According to Rob Bradford at WEEI, the Orioles are looking at Rich Hill as a possible option for their rotation.
Baltimore Orioles an interesting landing spot for Rich Hill
To this point, the only rumors about Hill have involved the Boston Red Sox. There has been mutual interest in a reunion between the two sides, with different options for a contract having been discussed. As Hill lives in Massachusetts and wants to be close to home, it would make sense for him to return to Boston.
However, the Orioles could be an interesting fit as well. Hill’s struggles throughout the early part of his career, and his personal tragedies, make him a respected figure in the clubhouse. Having that type of presence in what is still a young clubhouse can make a difference.
Although he will turn 43 years old prior to the start of the 2023 season, he was still a solid back of the rotation arm last year. Hill posted a 4.27 ERA and a 1.303 WHiP in his 124.1 innings last year, striking out 109 batters with 37 walks. He has also been relatively durable despite his age and past injury issues, making 58 appearances over the past two years.
In the end, this would be another stopgap signing for the Orioles. They have already brought Kyle Gibson and Adam Frazier on board with one year deals, hardly the type of offseason that anyone would have expected for a team that proclaimed itself ready to contend. It is difficult to see where Hill would make that much of a difference in 2023 either.
The Baltimore Orioles are reportedly interested in Rich Hill. He would be another veteran stopgap for a team that needed far more to contend.