Pirates 43-Year Old Starting Pitcher Underwent Offseason Surgery

He's entering his 19th major league season.

Left-handed pitcher Rich Hill underwent a minor elbow cleanup procedure following the 2022 season, according to Pittsburgh Pirates general manager Ben Cherington.

Year 19 pic.twitter.com/usocJzTeTP

— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) February 19, 2023

Despite being soon-to-be 43 years old, the Pirates plan to utilize Hill as much as possible, with the goal of having him start every fifth day.

Hill signed a one-year, $8 million contract with the Pirates in December 2022 after putting up a 4.27 ERA and 1.30 WHIP with 109 strikeouts over 124.1 innings in 26 starts for the Boston Red Sox last season.  

Forget his age, this is why Rich Hill is so valuable to this team.

Man I’m excited.
pic.twitter.com/YCfJUlGcbN

— Kody Duncan (@KodyDuncanPGH) February 17, 2023

While Hill's strikeout rate has dropped in recent years, he has remained mostly effective and could be a trade candidate to a contender at the deadline if he stays healthy and performs well. 

Over his 18-year career, Hill holds an impressive 3.85 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, with 1,294 strikeouts across 1,259 innings and 350 appearances. 

He's spent time with 11 different teams over his career.

Photo Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports