Athletics' Rich Hill removed after five pitches with blister

A's pitcher Rich Hill, one of the biggest names being floated around ahead of Major League Baseball's Aug. 1 trade deadline, was removed from his start against the Blue Jays on Sunday after aggravating a blister in his pitching hand.

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A's pitcher Rich Hill, one of the biggest names being floated around ahead of Major League Baseball's Aug. 1 trade deadline, was removed from his start against the Blue Jays on Sunday after aggravating a blister in his pitching hand.

Hill made five pitches to leadoff hitter Devon Travis before experiencing discomfort in his left middle finger. The lefthander initially got the blister during a side session in Houston last Thursday, and missed Friday's start due to what the team called a "precaution."

To make matters worse for Oakland, reliever Andrew Triggs, who replaced Hill, eventually had to leave after taking a line drive off the leg from the very next hitter. He finished the inning, but was replaced by Sean Manaea.

The Rangers, Red Sox and Orioles all reportedly had scouts in attendance to see Hill pitch.

- Kenny Ducey