Tim Hill has agreed to a one-year, $2.85 million contract with the New York Yankees for the 2025 season, with a club option for 2026 valued at $3 million and a $350,000 buyout. Hill, 34, will earn $2.5 million in 2025. This deal marks a reunion between the reliever and the team after a standout performance in New York last season. Hill’s return solidifies his role as a key piece of the Yankees’ bullpen heading into the new season.
Hill’s 2024 season was marked by an unexpected twist. After six years with the Kansas City Royals and San Diego Padres, he started the year with the struggling Chicago White Sox. However, his time in Chicago was short-lived, as Hill was released in June after recording a 5.87 ERA over 27 appearances. This setback didn’t end his career, as Hill found a new opportunity with the Yankees shortly after, ultimately resurrecting his performance on the mound.
Once Hill joined the Yankees, he quickly became one of the most reliable left-handed relievers in the league. Over 44 innings across 35 regular-season games, Hill posted an impressive 2.05 ERA. His postseason performance further cemented his value, pitching in 10 out of 14 playoff games and allowing only one earned run in 8⅓ innings. Hill’s ability to thrive in high-pressure situations was a key factor in the Yankees’ deep playoff run.
A Pitching Style That Works
Tim Hill’s unorthodox pitching style played a major role in his success. Known for his sidearm delivery and 89 mph fastball, Hill generated the highest ground ball rate among all major league relievers, standing at an exceptional 68.2%. Despite his lower strikeout rate of 10.7%, his ability to induce ground balls and avoid hard contact helped him dominate hitters. His barrel rate, which stood at just 1.4%, was the second-lowest in the majors, showcasing his ability to keep hitters off balance.
With the addition of Tim Hill, the Yankees have made significant strides to improve their bullpen heading into 2025. Hill joins other key acquisitions such as closer Devin Williams, Jonathan Loaisiga, and Fernando Cruz. Prior to Tuesday’s signing, the Yankees lacked a left-handed reliever on their 40-man roster, and Hill’s addition fills that gap. Given his pivotal role in the team’s World Series journey last season, Hill’s return further strengthens the Yankees’ pitching staff as they aim for another championship run.