45 Facts About Rich Hill

Who is Rich Hill?

Rich Hill is a professional baseball pitcher known for his longevity and resilience in Major League Baseball (MLB). Over his career, Hill has played for multiple teams, showcasing his skills and determination.

1. Rich Hill was born on March 11, 1980, in Boston, Massachusetts.
2. He attended Milton High School in Milton, Massachusetts.
3. Hill played college baseball for the Michigan Wolverines.
4. He was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the fourth round of the 2002 MLB Draft.
5. Hill made his MLB debut on June 15, 2005, with the Chicago Cubs.

Career Highlights

Rich Hill's career has been marked by several notable achievements and memorable moments. Here are some key highlights from his time in the MLB.

6. Hill pitched a complete game shutout against the Cincinnati Reds on September 16, 2006.
7. He recorded his first career save on August 29, 2007, against the Milwaukee Brewers.
8. Hill was traded to the Baltimore Orioles in 2009.
9. He signed with the Boston Red Sox in 2010, his hometown team.
10. Hill underwent Tommy John surgery in 2011, a significant procedure for pitchers.

Comeback and Resurgence

Despite facing numerous injuries, Rich Hill has made remarkable comebacks, proving his resilience and dedication to the sport.

11. Hill reinvented his pitching style, focusing more on his curveball.
12. He signed a minor league deal with the Washington Nationals in 2015.
13. Hill's performance with the Long Island Ducks in the Atlantic League caught the attention of MLB scouts.
14. He signed with the Oakland Athletics in 2016, marking a significant comeback.
15. Hill was named the American League Pitcher of the Month in May 2016.

Time with the Los Angeles Dodgers

Rich Hill's tenure with the Los Angeles Dodgers was particularly noteworthy, contributing to the team's success during his time there.

16. Hill was traded to the Dodgers in August 2016.
17. He pitched six perfect innings in his Dodgers debut on August 24, 2016.
18. Hill helped the Dodgers reach the World Series in 2017.
19. He pitched in Game 2 of the 2017 World Series, earning a no-decision.
20. Hill started Game 4 of the 2018 World Series against the Boston Red Sox.

Personal Life

Rich Hill's life off the field is just as interesting, with several personal milestones and experiences that have shaped who he is today.

21. Hill married his high school sweetheart, Caitlin McClellan.
22. The couple has two children, a son named Brice and a daughter named Brooks.
23. Hill and his family are actively involved in charitable work.
24. He has a passion for fishing and often spends his free time on the water.
25. Hill is known for his sense of humor and positive attitude.

Unique Pitching Style

Rich Hill's pitching style sets him apart from many other pitchers in the league, making him a unique and effective player.

26. Hill is known for his devastating curveball, which he throws over 40% of the time.
27. He has a distinctive high leg kick in his pitching motion.
28. Hill's fastball averages around 90 mph, but his curveball can drop to the low 70s.
29. He uses a variety of arm angles to keep hitters off balance.
30. Hill's ability to change speeds and locations makes him a challenging pitcher to face.

Achievements and Awards

Throughout his career, Rich Hill has earned several accolades and recognition for his contributions to the game.

31. Hill was named an All-Star in 2017.
32. He received the Tony Conigliaro Award in 2019.
33. Hill has pitched in multiple postseason games, including the World Series.
34. He has over 1,000 career strikeouts.
35. Hill has been a part of several division-winning teams.

Later Career and Legacy

Even in the later stages of his career, Rich Hill continues to make an impact on the field and inspire younger players.

36. Hill signed with the Minnesota Twins in 2020.
37. He joined the Tampa Bay Rays in 2021.
38. Hill was traded to the New York Mets in July 2021.
39. He became the oldest active pitcher in MLB in 2022.
40. Hill's perseverance and adaptability have earned him respect across the league.

Fun Facts

Here are some lesser-known facts about Rich Hill that add to his intriguing persona.

41. Hill's nickname is "Dick Mountain," a playful translation of his name.
42. He once pitched a game with a blister so severe it required stitches afterward.
43. Hill has a ritual of eating the same meal before every start: chicken and rice.
44. He is an avid fan of the New England Patriots.
45. Hill has a tattoo of Fenway Park on his arm, symbolizing his love for Boston.

Final Glimpse at Rich Hill

Rich Hill, Missouri, is more than just a dot on the map. It's a place with a rich history, quirky facts, and a community spirit that stands out. From its coal mining roots to the annual Fourth of July celebration, this small town packs a punch. The stories of famous residents, unique landmarks, and local legends make it a fascinating spot to learn about. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, Rich Hill offers a slice of Americana that's hard to find elsewhere. So next time you're looking for an interesting place to explore, consider this hidden gem. You'll find a town full of surprises, warmth, and a sense of belonging that makes it truly special. Rich Hill isn't just a place; it's an experience waiting to be had.