HOG DODGERS, OTHERS CIRCLING TIM HILL

Tim Hill, who closed out the 2024 season with the New York Yankees, has become a sought-after name late in free agency. Known as "The Groundball Guru," Hill is generating significant interest from teams looking to strengthen their bullpens, and the Yankees appear to be at the forefront. Focused on securing reliable middle relievers and setup arms, the Yankees seem well-positioned for a potential reunion with Hill.

Per Jon Heyman, the Yankees are actively pursuing several bullpen options, with Hill being a standout choice. His 2024 season was a story of redemption. After struggling with a 5.87 ERA during his stint with the White Sox, Hill turned things around dramatically in New York, delivering a sparkling 2.05 ERA and proving himself as a valuable asset. That kind of rebound doesn’t go unnoticed.

Pat Ragazzo of Sports Illustrated has reported “mutual interest” between Hill and the Yankees, though other teams like the Mets, Dodgers, and Diamondbacks are also in the mix for the veteran southpaw. Pete Caldera of The Bergen Record predicts that the Yankees are likely to bring Hill back to the Bronx.

For Hill, returning to the Yankees would make perfect sense. He excelled in pinstripes, played a key role in their postseason success, and could continue to thrive in a bullpen that’s shaping up to be a strength. Plus, with the Yankees making bold moves this offseason, Hill might see this as the perfect opportunity to stick with a contender. 

Another guaranteed deal seems inevitable, and staying with the Yankees could be the best way for Hill to build on his success and chase another championship.