Rich Hill Signs Minor League Deal with Kansas City Royals

Kansas City, MO — The Kansas City Royals announced on Tuesday that they have signed veteran left-hander Rich Hill to a minor league contract. The 45-year-old pitcher will report to the Royals’ spring training facility in Surprise, Arizona, before heading to Triple-A Omaha.

This move marks another chapter in Hill’s lengthy career, which spans over two decades. He has pitched for 13 other major league teams, making the Royals his 14th organization. His experience includes a career ERA of 4.01 and 1,428 strikeouts over 1,409 innings pitched.

Hill, originally from Boston, last played in the major leagues with the Red Sox in 2024, where he made four appearances out of the bullpen, posting a 4.91 ERA. Despite his struggles last season, he is eager to return to the diamond. “I’d love to play another year and have an opportunity to get into the postseason and win a World Series,” Hill said. “That’s everybody’s dream. There’s nothing like it.”

The Royals are currently performing well, holding a record of 25-18 this season. If Hill is promoted during the season, he will aim to contribute to their playoff push. Throughout his career, he has faced the challenges of an evolving game that emphasizes younger pitchers with greater velocity.

Hill’s commitment to baseball remains strong. He participated in the Premier12 tournament in Japan last winter, showcasing his determination to compete. “I still feel that I have a lot to offer,” he stated, emphasizing the need for teams to develop starting pitchers.

With Hill’s signing, both the Royals and the pitcher are looking forward to what might be another successful chapter in his storied career.