Red Sox Rumors: Boston Eyes Veteran Pitcher for Rotation Boost

The Boston Red Sox’s starting rotation is showing signs of fatigue. Tanner Houck and Kutter Crawford are struggling as they approach their career-high innings pitched, while Nick Pivetta’s next start will be skipped due to elbow fatigue. Though Brayan Bello and James Paxton are starting to find their rhythm, they can’t carry the rotation alone. To address this, the Red Sox recently scouted a familiar face who could provide some much-needed relief.

Three-time Red Sox pitcher and Boston native, Rich Hill, expressed his desire to pitch in the second half of the 2024 season. The veteran hurler has been showcasing his skills for scouts in Massachusetts, with the Red Sox among the teams reportedly interested in signing him.

Hill, a 19-year MLB veteran with a career 4.01 ERA, has played for 13 different teams but has spent the most time with his hometown Red Sox. Despite a challenging 2023 season, where he posted a 5.41 ERA with the Pirates and Padres, Hill believes he’s ready to contribute again. After several months off, Hill told reporters that he feels “100%,” emphasizing that his motivation to pitch is driven by a desire to win, not money.

While Hill’s numbers don’t stand out, his experience and potentially well-rested arm could be a valuable addition to the Red Sox’s depleted rotation. However, Boston will need to move quickly, as other teams, including the Twins, Yankees, and Dodgers, have already expressed interest in the veteran pitcher.