The Los Angeles Dodgers were dealt an unfortunate blow last Thursday when Rich Hill lasted all of two-thirds of an inning against the Baltimore Orioles in what was his first start since sustaining a strained flexor tendon on June 19.
While his forearm remained in good standing, the left-hander was ultimately diagnosed with a strained MCL in his left knee — the same injury suffered in Spring Training that ultimately sidelined him for the start of the regular season.
Though, Hill was quick to note that the pain and discomfort in his knee did not compare to the injury he sustained in the spring. Hoping to pitch again this season, the left-hander threw on flat ground with no issues over the weekend at Citi Field.
Hill wore a knee brace and adjusted his delivery as a solution to eliminate any potential pain. Despite the encouraging development, the 39-year-old was still slated to undergo an MRI on Monday upon the Dodgers’ return to Los Angeles.
According to Alanna Rizzo of SportsNet LA, Hill doesn’t have any structural damage and his availability is based on pain tolerance:
Hill MRI showed no structural damage. It’s per his tolerance.
— Alanna Rizzo (@alannarizzo) September 17, 2019
For what appeared to be a potentially serious injury at first glance, the prognosis is certainly a positive outcome for both Hill and the Dodgers. He threw off a bullpen mound on Tuesday and seemingly could slot back into the rotation later this week.
If Hill manages to continue pitching, he conceivably could be an option for the Dodgers to start a Game 4 in the postseason. Another option could be for the left-hander to transition into a relief role.
In 11 starts this season, Hill compiled a 4-1 record, 2.68 ERA, 4.30 FIP and 1.14 WHIP with 63 strikeouts against 14 walks across 53.2 innings pitched.
