Padres News: Bob Melvin Not Ready to Pull Plug on Rich Hill Experience Yet
When the trade deadline came around, the Padres were hoping to upgrade their team by bringing in some veteran leadership.
Unfortunately for the Friars, the veterans they have brought in have not lived up to the task. Rich Hill is most guilty of not pitching like he has in the past.
The Padres acquired Hill along with Ji-Man Choi from the Pirates in exchange for three prospects.
In a Padres uniform Hill has struggled, but manager Bob Melvin is not ready to give up on the 43-year-old.
When asked if the Padres would look towards Pedro Avila to start over Hill this week, manager Bob Melvin said they weren't giving up on Hill yet.
"Look Avila will be in position to pitch in that game as well," padres manager Bob Melvin said. "But we brought Rich Hill over here for a reason. Experienced guy that's been through these things. I know he hasn't been happy with the first two performances, but I think that will mean the next one will be much better." (Via San Diego Union-Tribune)
In two starts with the Friars, Hill's ERA is over 12. In his first start against the Dodgers on Sunday Night Baseball he gave up six runs in three innings.
His next start, Hill threw 3.1 innings and gave up three runs on 83 pitches.
Hill's struggles have not started with the Padres, however.
With the Pirates this year, Hill had a 4.76 ERA in 22 starts.
Hill's next start looks to be against the Diamondbacks in San Diego likely on Thursday. We'll see if that ends up being his last, or if he's able to turn things around.
