Editorials

Dodgers: Should Rich Hill Be a Starter in the Playoffs?

Dodgers veteran starting pitcher, Rich Hill has been on the injured list since June 19th, due to a left forearm strain.

Rich Hill was on the 10-day IL, but on July 16th, he was transferred to a 60-day IL. He is working his way back from injury, however, he will likely be out until mid-September. Good news for the Dodgers, and Dodger fans, Rich Hill said on Sunday, he is three weeks away from throwing off a mound.

There has been some discussion on whether Rich Hill should be a starter in the playoffs for Los Angeles, or a relief pitcher. This season, as a starter, Hill has a 4-1 record, with a 2.55 ERA. In 9 games, Hill has struck out 59 batters, averaging 6.5 strikeouts per game. Hill still has game left in him, and should be a starter in the playoffs. The Dodgers would need 4 starting pitchers in the playoffs, for it to be a strong rotation.

Ryu, Kershaw, Buehler, Hill. A starting rotation can’t get any better than that.

A Look Back

Hill has pitched in 4 NLCS games throughout his career. In those games, he has thrown 17 innings while giving up only 2 runs (1 HR) on 9 hits and striking out 21 batters. That translates to an impressive ERA of 1.06. He has appeared in 3 World Series games throughout his career, pitching 15 innings while giving up 3 runs (1 HR) on 8 hits and struck out 19 batters. That’s an amazing ERA of 1.80.

Rich Hill has been pitching in the Major League for 15 years. He has more than enough experience to deliver for the Dodgers. He should be a starting pitcher, along with Ryu, Kershaw, and Buehler. All four of those pitchers have the capability of pitching 8 plus innings, putting less pressure on the bullpen, which could help lead to a World Series title.

Levon Satamian

My name is Levon Satamian. I am currently attending Cal State Northridge, and majoring in Broadcast Journalism.

2 Comments

  1. dodgers will need to see where Hill is at during September and how he fares but if he is a SP, fine by me. that being said I would bet that most fans feel Maeda should be a BP piece by that time.

  2. Paul I agree Hill is a great change of pace guy that throws at all angles, speeds and eye level. I think he is so unconventional, competitive, and intelligent he is effective.
    I think like most Maeda is destined for the Bullpen. Maeda’s slider and other pitches play well for an inning or two and he has been very effective.
    My question is do you think the Dodgers sign Ryu in the winter? And do you think Maeda makes the rotation next year with May and Gonsolin fighting for starter slots?
    If Hill is sound I think you start him. Remember each playoff series can have different rosters so I think they will fill the roster accordingly. The Nationals and Mets could be tough first round opponents because of their incredible starting pitching.

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