Rich Hill’s new 3-year deal is worth $48 million. However, it is a questionable deal. Not on whether or not he will perform, but where he fits in. In the midst of all the starting pitching options the Dodgers have, it’s not certain Hill will be a key part of the LA rotation in 17’.
Clayton Kershaw, Julio Urias, and Kenta Maeda are in the rotation no matter what. But, after those three, it’s hard-core competition. Hyun-Jin Ryu was the #2/3 guy for LA in 13’ and 14’ winning 14 games back-to-back seasons, but injuries took him out in 15’ and 16’. Injuries also have riddled fellow lefty, Scott Kazmir. The southpaw dealt with back problems in the second half in 16’ limiting him to only 8 starts. But, when he is on, he is worth the ironic $48 million contract. Speaking of big contracts, Brandon McCarthy also has one with the Blue Crew. Finally, guys like Jose De Leon, Chase De Jong, and Alex Wood could have great springs. So, where, or how will Rich Hill fit in?
Certainly this new contract plus his role with the Dodgers just a month and a half ago indicate he will be the #2 or 3 starter. But, like the Kazmir, Ryu, and McCarthy deals, Hill comes with injury concerns. When healthy though Hill brings a devastating curveball and experience at 36-years-old. The veteran southpaw in his long awaited breakout season in 16’ had a microscopic WHIP of 0.997 in 110 innings. Hill also impressed in 2016 postseason that included a 6-inning shutout of the Cubs in NLCS Game 2. Despite his recent success, Rich will still have to prove himself in Spring Training to designate a spot in the rotation.
One problem this deal presents is the fact LA is paying a guy $48 million who is injury prone and will have to beat out multiple starters in Spring Training. The other problem has to do with the new CBA deal. The luxury tax is at $195 million, meaning that any team that has a yearly salary cap over 195 will have to pay taxes to smaller market teams. With the Dodgers already over $200 million, they need to be smart with how they spend their money. Their closer Kenley Jansen is a free agent who is demanding $80 million plus. Jansen has been one of the most important pieces to recent Dodger success. Jansen’s looming new contract will most likely give him a salary of $18 million. LA should be spending the limited money on him, not Hill, who is now making $16 million yearly.
