With pitchers and catchers set to report to spring training in Tampa, Florida, in just eight days, the New York Yankees have finally addressed their glaring need for a left-handed reliever, avoiding the prospect of an all-right-handed bullpen in 2025. ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports the team has re-signed veteran lefty Tim Hill, a familiar face who revitalized his career in the Bronx last season.
Hill, 34, joined the Yankees on June 20, 2024, after being released by the Chicago White Sox, where he posted a dismal 5.87 ERA over 27 games. His turnaround in New York was stark: Across 35 appearances, he logged a stellar 2.05 ERA in 44 innings, surrendering 36 hits while walking just eight batters. Though his strikeout numbers were modest (18 Ks), Hill excelled at inducing ground balls (69% rate), making him a go-to option for manager Aaron Boone in high-leverage, double-play situations.
Known for his unorthodox low sidearm delivery, Hill proved particularly effective against left-handed hitters, stabilizing a Yankees bullpen that propelled the team to an AL East title and a World Series berth in 2024. The club has now secured him on a cost-effective one-year, $2.85 million deal, with a $3 million team option (and $350,000 buyout) for 2026. This move shores up a critical weakness as the Yankees eye another championship run.
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