Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 7, 2024 11:14 pm GMT
BOSTON — Veteran left-hander Rich Hill has been designated for assignment by the Boston Red Sox as the 2024 baseball season continues to unfold. The announcement was made on Friday, following Hill’s brief comeback with the team at the age of 44. Hill’s spot on the roster will now be filled by right-hander Luis Guerrero, who has been called up from Triple-A Worcester.
Rich Hill’s Career Highlights
Hill, affectionately known as “Dick Mountain,” has had a storied career in Major League Baseball (MLB). Over the years, he has built a reputation as a reliable pitcher, overcoming various challenges to remain competitive at the highest level. Before rejoining the Red Sox, he began the 2023 season with the Pittsburgh Pirates before being traded to the San Diego Padres. His performance with the Padres was less stellar, which prompted him to seek opportunities elsewhere.
After sitting out the first part of the 2024 season, Hill showcased his skills during a private workout for MLB teams and expressed his desire to return to the majors. The Red Sox offered him a minor league deal as part of his remarkable eighth stint with the organization.
Limited Impact in Recent Appearances
Hill made a brief impact during his return, appearing in four games but managing only 3 2/3 innings of work. In this time, he posted a 4.91 ERA, striking out five batters while walking three. His initial outings were promising, during which he delivered 2 2/3 perfect innings, but subsequent performances showed signs of struggle. Given the team’s lack of playoff contention, the decision to designate him was made to provide younger talent an opportunity to compete and develop.
Introducing Luis Guerrero
Stepping in for Hill is Luis Guerrero, a promising right-handed pitcher who has made a name for himself in Triple-A. At 24 years old, Guerrero boasts a solid 3.31 ERA and an impressive strikeout rate of 33.1% in 54 1/3 innings this season. However, he also grapples with a high walk rate of 13.4%, a common challenge among young pitchers. Despite this, Guerrero’s potential to contribute to the Red Sox bullpen has garnered attention throughout the organization.
Guerrero’s fastball, which can reach velocities of up to 100 mph, combined with his effective splitter and slider, highlights his capabilities as a significant addition to the Red Sox roster. His promotion reflects the organization’s intent to evaluate younger talent in the final stretch of the season.
The Future for Rich Hill
With Hill designated for assignment, he will now await the outcomes of waivers. If another team claims him, they will inherit his contract, although he would not be eligible for that team’s playoff roster. Alternatively, Hill could opt to return to Triple-A as a member of the Worcester Red Sox or potentially pursue free agency once again. As he approaches his 45th birthday in March, there is uncertainty regarding Hill’s future in professional baseball.
Reaction from Fans and Analysts
Reactions to Hill’s designation have been mixed among fans and analysts alike. Some have expressed disappointment, citing Hill’s resilience and past contributions to the team. Others see this decision as necessary, emphasizing the importance of giving younger players a chance to prove themselves in MLB. The Red Sox are currently not in playoff contention, making roster evaluations increasingly important for the remainder of the season.
As the team keeps going, we don’t know yet what will happen with Hill or if he will find new chances in Major League Baseball. At the same time, the Red Sox will probably work on helping their young pitchers, like Guerrero, get better as they plan for the future.
