Yankees Re-Sign Left-Hander Tim Hill to One-Year Deal

NEW YORK — The New York Yankees have re-signed left-handed reliever Tim Hill to a one-year, $2.85 million contract, according to ESPNu2019s Jeff Passan. The deal includes $2.5 million guaranteed for the 2025 season and a $350,000 buyout on a $3 million club option for 2026.

Hill, 34, began the 2024 season with the Chicago White Sox but was released in June after posting a 5.07 ERA in 23 innings. After joining the Yankees in mid-June, he turned his season around, recording a stellar 2.05 ERA in 48 innings. He also excelled in the postseason, allowing just one run in 8 1/3 innings.

A sidearming sinker specialist, Hill relies heavily on inducing ground balls rather than strikeouts. In 2024, 68.2% of batted balls against him were grounders, the highest rate among pitchers with at least 40 innings pitched. However, his 10.7% strikeout rate was the second-lowest in the league, and his 88.7% contact rate allowed was the highest.

Despite the lack of strikeouts, Hillu2019s ability to limit damage was evident. He allowed a .290 batting average but gave up just nine extra-base hits (seven doubles and two home runs) in 291 plate appearances. His 6.5% walk rate, including a 5.2% mark with the Yankees, further helped him navigate high-pressure situations.

Hill was particularly effective against left-handed hitters, who batted .273/.321/.322 against him, while right-handers hit .303/.352/.352. His ground-ball-heavy approach also led to eight double plays, ranking him among the top relievers in inducing such outs.

The Yankeesu2019 bullpen, already bolstered by the addition of closer Devin Williams, will benefit from Hillu2019s consistency and postseason experience. His return provides depth and a reliable left-handed option for manager Aaron Boone.

Hillu2019s resurgence with the Yankees last season made him a sought-after free agent, but New York moved quickly to secure his services for 2025. The deal represents a low-risk, high-reward move for a team with World Series aspirations.