The 2025 MLB season has involved plenty of headlines involving former Boston Red Sox players, including left-handed hurler Rich Hill. He opened the campaign unsigned after being designated for assignment by the Red Sox in September, seemingly positioning the 45-year-old southpaw to end his career if things didn't change soon.
MassLive's Chris Cotillo reported in April that Hill was eyeing a return to the AL East; however, nothing ever came of that, and he ended up inking a minor-league contract with the Kansas City Royals instead. He's since been pitching for Triple-A Omaha in hopes of a big-league call-up, and it looks like the time for waiting is finally over.
Royals Promote Former Red Sox LHP Rich Hill Before Trip to Boston
It's been nearly a year since Hill last pitched at Fenway Park, and he might have a new look the next time he potentially takes the mound in Boston. MLB.com's Anne Rogers is reporting Kansas City has promoted Hill to its MLB roster, opening the door for him to face his former team when the Red Sox host the Royals from Aug.4-6.
45-year-old Rich Hill is back for his 21st season!
— MLB (@MLB) July 21, 2025
Hill is reportedly being called up by the Royals, per https://t.co/Z3s2EpgF39's @Anne__Rogers. pic.twitter.com/qaubA8v7dA
It's always great to see a former Red Sox fan favorite landing a new opportunity, and only time will tell if Hill can capitalize on his latest chance. Having said that, the Boston native must pitch better than he has in the minors if he wants to make his Fenway Park return next month.
In nine starts with the Storm Chasers, Hill has gone 4-4 with a 5.22 ERA and 1.550 WHIP across 42 innings. The Royals thought his recent performances warranted a promotion, though, as the experienced lefty racked up 11 Ks with one run allowed in seven innings in his last two appearances since July 13.
Hill has had four stints with the Red Sox throughout his 20-year career, pitching to a 12-9 record and 3.34 ERA with 186 strikeouts across 188 2/3 innings in 74 games (30 starts). His performance worsened each time he returned to Boston, making it interesting to see if that trend will continue when the Royals visit town next month.
If Hill can pitch efficiently long enough to stay in the Kansas City rotation, that is.