Former Dodgers Pitcher Hoping to Return to MLB in 2025
For the only player in baseball who has pitched in at least one game every year over the past two decades — and who has suited up for 13 different teams — the ultimate dream would be to capture a World Series title in 2025, and then secure another gold medal with Team USA in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
To win a gold medal in the Olympics would also make Rich Hill 48 years old.
The former Los Angeles Dodgers fan favorite is currently representing the United States in the Premier12 international baseball tournament where he is surrounded by teammates half his age or younger.
This team consists of current and former prospects who are not on any major league 40-man rosters which also presents a unique opportunity for Hill, who is looking forward to pitching in the big leagues in 2025. When the 2024 season ended, he informed Major League teams he was interested in continuing his career for at least one more year.
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“I obviously love the game of baseball, I love the work and competition or I wouldn’t be doing this,’’ Hill told USA Today’s Bob Nightengale. “But we’ll see what the future holds as far as playing. I’m not sure if this will be it or not. I think we’ll probably know in a month or so.
“I’d love to play another year and have an opportunity to get into the postseason and win a World Series. That’s everybody’s dream. I’ve been close a couple of times, but it’s not like anything I’ve experienced in the game. Playing in the postseason, there’s nothing like it. Nothing at all like it.’’
Hills is still chasing a World Series, something that has eluded him throughout his career, and seeing his former teammates with the Dodgers win this season makes him want it even more.
“It’s really cool to see just the joy on their faces,’’ Hill said. “Seeing other players experience that, you’re just genuinely excited for them. And you want that. One more time.
“So hopefully, that will come around. I still feel that I have a lot to offer. I think baseball is at a crossroads where were need to start developing starting pitching again, and not just relievers who are chasing velocity at a young age. I know I can still provide innings.
“But, if not, and that’s it, I can call it on my own terms, knowing I’ve been fortunate to have a lot of really cool experiences in this game.’’
More news: Dodgers Making $100 Million Changes to Dodger Stadium Following 2024 Season
Photo Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
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