With only eight days left before pitchers and catchers report to spring training in Tampa, Florida, the New York Yankees have finally secured a left-handed reliever. Before Tuesday, the team was set to enter the 2025 season with an all-right-handed bullpen, a situation that was clearly not ideal. According to ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan, the Yankees have found their guy in Tim Hill, a pitcher they are already familiar with.
Hill, 34, was initially signed by the Yankees as a mid-season free agent on June 20, 2024, after being released by the Chicago White Sox. He made an immediate impact, contributing solid innings down the stretch during New York’s successful push for the American League East title and their eventual World Series appearance. In the 35 games he pitched for the Yankees, Hill allowed 36 hits over 44 innings and posted a 2.05 ERA.
His stint in Chicago, however, had been far less successful, with Hill struggling to a 5.87 ERA in 27 appearances. His unique low sidearm delivery provided a tough look for hitters, especially lefties. Hill struck out only 18 batters for the Yankees, but walked just eight and hit one batter. Most importantly, his ground ball rate was an impressive 69 percent, making him a key option for manager Aaron Boone in double-play situations.
According to Passan, the Yankees have signed Hill to a one-year, $2.85 million deal. They also have a $3 million option for a second year, but would owe Hill a $350,000 buyout if they decide to part ways with him after or during the 2025 season.
