In a remarkable twist, veteran pitcher Rich Hill just carved out a fresh chapter in Major League Baseball history. At 45, Hill has signed with the Kansas City Royals, making this his 13th team in a career that’s already seen him suit up for the Dodgers, Angels, Cubs, and plenty more.
This move sets a new record—no other player has played for more teams. Hill’s still out there on the mound, proving his resilience and love for the game.
Rich Hill’s career really has been a wild ride. From his early days with the Chicago Cubs to a recent stint with the Red Sox, Hill always seemed to find a way to come back, no matter what.
He’s had more comebacks than most can count. Each time, he showed up with the same commitment to his craft—maybe even more determined than before.
The Early Years
Hill started his MLB journey with the Cubs back in 2005. Those first years? A mix of promise and frustration, with injuries and inconsistency never far behind.
But even then, his curveball was something else. People noticed.
Revival with the Dodgers
After bouncing around, Hill found new life with the Dodgers in 2016. LA gave him a chance, and he ran with it, helping the team in several deep playoff runs.
That stretch really cemented his reputation as a steady, veteran presence on the mound.
The Historic Move to the Royals
The Royals signing Hill is a bold move. They’re clearly hoping his experience and leadership will steady their pitching rotation.
It’s not just about breaking a record—it’s a shot in the arm for Kansas City as they eye a playoff push.
What Hill Brings to the Royals
Hill’s experience is huge for a team that mixes young talent with a few older hands. He’s always been the kind of guy who mentors younger pitchers and brings a sense of calm to the rotation.
His work ethic and competitive streak? Honestly, it’s contagious.
- Experience: Hill’s been in the league for over 17 years—he’s seen almost everything.
- Leadership: His presence in the clubhouse gives team morale a real boost.
- Performance: Even at his age, Hill still finds ways to deliver on the mound.
Setting the Record: 13 Teams and Counting
With the Royals, Hill’s now played for a record 13 MLB teams. That’s wild, honestly.
He’s worn the jerseys of the Cubs, Orioles, Red Sox, Indians, Angels, Yankees, Athletics, Dodgers, Twins, Rays, Mets, Pirates, and now the Royals.
The Significance of This Record
Thirteen teams. That’s not just a number—it says a lot about Hill’s adaptability and grit. He’s managed to fit into all kinds of team cultures and pitching staffs.
It’s pretty clear that teams across the league respect what he brings. If you want more details, check out the full story at the Los Angeles Times.
Looking Ahead: Hill’s Impact on the Royals’ Season
As the Royals head into the second half of the season, Hill’s role could be huge. He’s been in big moments before, and that kind of experience matters when the pressure’s on.
Just having him around is bound to lift the guys in the clubhouse.
Potential Challenges
Of course, there are some question marks. At 45, can Hill stay healthy? The team will need to manage his workload carefully.
Fitting him into the rotation without disrupting chemistry will take some planning too.
Optimism for the Future
Still, there’s a real sense of optimism about Hill landing in Kansas City. He’s thrived in new places before, and there’s every reason to think he’ll do it again.
For the Royals, this isn’t just about the present—it feels like a step toward something bigger down the road.
Conclusion
Rich Hill just signed with the Kansas City Royals, and honestly, that’s a pretty wild milestone in MLB history.
His journey across 13 teams? That says a lot about his resilience and sheer love for the game.
Now, as Hill steps into this new chapter, you can’t help but wonder what the season will bring for him and the Royals.
He’s bringing a ton of experience and a stubborn determination, so it’s hard not to think he’ll shake things up in Kansas City.
If you’re a baseball fan, this is one story you’ll probably want to keep an eye on.
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