The Chicago Cubs have taken a bit of a treasure hunt approach this season by diving into the pool of veteran pitchers, searching for those hidden gems that can bolster their bullpen. It seems this strategy has paid off with Chris Flexen and Drew Pomeranz, who have been stringing together scoreless outings with impressive consistency. On the flip side, their bet on Kenta Maeda isn’t looking promising.
Maeda’s stint with the Iowa Cubs has been rocky, to say the least, as evidenced by his ballooning 13.89 ERA through just four starts. It’s clear the Cubs need arms at the ready, especially with Justin Steele, Shota Imanaga, and Javier Assad all sidelined due to injuries and the upper levels of their system feeling the pinch.
What the Cubs really need right now is a frontline starter, someone who can shoulder the rotation and provide stability. It seems almost certain the Cubs will be on the hunt for that type of pitcher as the MLB Trade Deadline looms. Until then, they’ll continue to seek out depth, which might just lead them back into the orbit of a former Cub.
Rich Hill’s career has been nothing short of a journey. Starting his big-league voyage with the Cubs back in 2005, Hill is still on the mound in 2025. Currently on a minor-league deal with the Kansas City Royals, Hill’s contract comes with an opt-out clause on June 15. If the Royals don’t call him up to the majors, Hill might just look for opportunities elsewhere.
Could this veteran southpaw make a nostalgic return to the Cubs?
While Rich Hill won’t likely be the solution to the Cubs’ pressing need for a high-impact starter, he could provide much-needed depth. Envisioned as a Triple-A stalwart, Hill would be a reliable veteran presence ready to step in and deliver innings when injuries strike. This option might be more appealing than relying on the faltering Maeda or Woodford. However, the deciding factor could be whether Hill is ready to move on from the Royals for another minor-league pact, with the potential of reuniting with his first MLB team perhaps adding a sentimental touch to his decision.
