Veteran pitcher Rich Hill, known for his resilience and longevity in Major League Baseball, added another chapter to his career on Tuesday. At age 45, Hill debuted for the Kansas City Royals and became the oldest player in franchise history.
Even though the Royals lost to the Chicago Cubs, Hill’s outing showed his passion for baseball and his knack for defying time. It’s honestly wild to see someone still doing this at his age.
Rich Hill’s Memorable Kansas City Royals Debut
In his 2025 debut, Hill pitched five innings for Kansas City and allowed three runs—only one was earned. He gave up six hits, walked two, and struck out one batter in a 90-pitch effort, with 55 pitches landing for strikes.
The Royals couldn’t score and fell 6-0 to the Cubs, so Hill took the loss. Still, watching him work the mound with such poise at 45 felt like witnessing something rare.
Making History as MLB’s Elder Statesman
Hill became the first pitcher aged 45 or older to start an MLB game since Bartolo Colon did it back in 2018. He also grabbed the title of oldest player ever to wear a Royals uniform.
That’s impressive, considering how tough it is to stay relevant in pro sports at that age. Most players are long gone by then.
This start kicked off Hill’s 21st season in the majors. His career has stretched over two decades and included stints with some of the biggest franchises in baseball.
Setting Records While Touring the League
Hill tied a quirky MLB record, too. By appearing for the Royals, he’s now played for 14 different MLB teams, matching Edwin Jackson’s record for most franchises represented by a single player.
He’s bounced around, with four separate runs as a Boston Red Sox, and stops with the Dodgers, Yankees, Mets, Cubs, and plenty more. That’s a lot of uniforms.
A Career of Perseverance and Longevity
Hill’s journey hasn’t been smooth. Injuries and setbacks could have ended his career years ago, but he just kept pushing.
He signed a minor-league deal with the Royals in May and posted a 4-4 record with a 5.36 ERA in nine Triple-A starts. That performance got him the call-up when the Royals needed him.
Pitching Tuesday’s game at Wrigley Field brought things full circle for Hill. He made his MLB debut there in 2005 with the Cubs.
Looking back, Hill expressed gratitude for another chance to chase his dreams. You can tell he still loves the game.
Why Rich Hill’s Story Resonates
Rich Hill’s story is more than just stats. It’s about resilience, adaptability, and pure love for baseball.
At an age when most players have moved on, Hill’s still out there facing some of the best hitters around. That kind of commitment is hard not to admire.
Key Takeaways from Hill’s Career
Rich Hill’s career has a few lessons for anyone paying attention:
- Defying age: Hill’s ability to compete at 45 shows the power of preparation and the right mindset.
- Persevering through setbacks: He’s battled injuries and challenges but keeps thriving thanks to determination.
- A well-traveled career: Playing for 14 MLB teams proves his adaptability and value in a changing league.
- Chasing dreams with no regrets: Hill’s focus on seizing every chance—without worrying about “what ifs”—is something to admire.
What’s Next for Hill and the Royals?
Rich Hill’s gearing up for what might be his last season in the majors. His spot on the Royals’ roster brings more than just another arm in the rotation.
Hill’s experience? It’s huge for younger players trying to figure out big-league life. He’s basically a bridge between generations—a living symbol of sticking with it, no matter what.
Maybe this is Hill’s final stop. Or maybe he’s got another chapter in him.
Either way, his legacy as one of baseball’s most enduring figures feels secure. From a standout Royals debut at 45 to a career that’s stretched over two decades, Hill’s journey is the kind of story that reminds us why we care about this game in the first place.
Here is the source article for this story: Former Red Sox Pitcher Rich Hill Impresses In Royals Debut
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