45-year-old pitcher Rich Hill made history by taking the mound for the Kansas City Royals yesterday, marking his 14th Major League Baseball (MLB) team and tying the record set by Edwin Jackson. The veteran left-hander, who debuted with the Chicago Cubs in 2005, faced the same team in a full-circle moment at Wrigley Field, where he allowed three runs (one earned) over five innings in a 6-0 loss.
Hill’s remarkable 21-season career spans the Cubs (2005–08), Orioles (2009), Red Sox (2010–12, 2015, 2022, 2024), Guardians (2013), Angels (2014), Yankees (2014), A’s (2016), Dodgers (2016–19), Twins (2020), Rays (2021), Mets (2021), Pirates (2023), Padres (2023), and now the Royals (2025). His appearance also made him the oldest active MLB player, surpassing Justin Verlander. Signed to a minor league deal by Kansas City in May, Hill was called up from Triple-A Omaha to fill in for injured starters, showcasing his enduring passion and resilience.
“Just keep working,” Hill said post-game. “Every time I go out there, I’m going to give everything I’ve got.” His journey, driven by dedication and a love for the game, cements his legacy as one of baseball’s most enduring figures.
