Dodgers: Rich Hill Advancing to Next Step in Rehab Process
Dodgers’ starting pitcher Rich Hill will be taking a significant step forward towards his return later this week.
Rich Hill will throw his first bullpen session later this week.
— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) August 20, 2019
Hill has been on the IL since late June after suffering a flexor strain injury that’s sidelined him for a large portion of this season.
There have been rumblings that Hill could return as a starter in time for the playoffs but whether or not that’s truly feasible is yet to be seen.
If he’s not starting, Hill could likely serve as a reinforcement in a bullpen that has caused some concern throughout the regular season.
Regardless of where he’ll eventually fill in, manager Dave Roberts was happy with the progress he’s seen out of the southpaw as of late.
Alex Verdugo is still experiencing pain in his strained oblique. He’ll be out until at least September 1, Dave Roberts said. Also, Rich Hill was letting it rip while long tossing today. Dave Roberts said he did not appear to be in pain. “He was very encouraged,” Roberts said.
— Pedro Moura (@pedromoura) August 20, 2019
Hill has been impressive when looking at his short sample size this season. In 10 games and 53 innings pitched, he’s posted a 2.55 ERA with a 1.113 WHIP.
If he’s able to stay healthy and make a return, he could be a very valuable asset available to Roberts as the postseason looms.
Rich Hill will not last. His injury will require surgery.