New York Yankees reportedly interested in Royals LHP Tim Hill

The New York Yankees and GM Brian Cashman have been engaged in the free-agent market since the end of the postseason, making numerous comments advocating for a strong class of players, especially in regards to starting pitchers. However, the Bombers could execute trades to supplement the weaknesses on the roster.

Reports have indicated that the Yankees could be engaged in a potential trade with the Kansas City Royals for left-handed pitcher, Tim Hill.

Hill is drawing interest from around the league, but the Yankees, who could let Dellin Betances walk this season after suffering a torn Achilles tendon on his September 15 debut, will need to find a replacement. The Royal isn’t eligible for arbitration until 2020, giving the team four years of control, which would benefit the Bombers in a trade situation; however, it might drive up his price-tag.

 How would Tim Hill benefit the New York Yankees?

The lefty is only turning 30-years-old next February and has a 3.63 ERA/1.109 WHIP and 39 Ks in 39.2 IP over 46 games last season (baseball-reference). He’s incredibly strong against lefty hitters, holding them to a .465 OPS and one extra-base hit in 65 plate appearances in 2019. He’s solid against righties too, holding them to a .755 OPS.

While Hill isn’t at Betances’ level, he’s competent in situational circumstances, especially against lefties.

With only two seasons of professional baseball under his belt, Hill is still young and developing at the top level. The Yankees might have to part with a prospect and cash considerations to pry him from Kansas City, but his services and control make him valuable.

Adding him to a bullpen consisting of Adam Ottavino, Aroldis Chapman, Chad Green, Luis Cessa, Zack Britton, Tommy Kahnle, and Jonathan Holder would be beneficial, and youngsters Deivi Garcia and Michael King could both be used as relief arms as well. Again, this is contingent on Cashman letting Betances walk in free agency.