Rangers Re-Sign Derek Hill to Minor League Deal
The Texas Rangers have re-signed outfielder Derek Hill to a minor league contract, according to Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News. Hill will return to Triple-A Round Rock after opting for free agency earlier this week.
Hill’s Journey
Initially signing a minor league deal in the offseason, Hill was added to the MLB roster in late May. He played in five games, starting twice in right field, and recorded a 2-for-9 performance with a walk and a stolen base. This marked Hill’s fifth year in the majors. Last week, the Rangers designated him for assignment, and he cleared waivers on Tuesday.
Career Background
A first-round pick by the Tigers in 2014, Hill had limited playing time in Detroit, posting a .240/.291/.339 line over 95 games in three seasons. He had a short stint with the Nationals last year, playing in 13 games. Hill is known for his speed and defensive versatility across all three outfield positions but has struggled offensively in the majors.
Triple-A Performance
In Triple-A, however, Hill has been effective, boasting a .295/.354/.502 slash line in nearly 900 plate appearances. This season with Round Rock, he has impressed with a .333/.387/.659 line in 142 plate appearances, hitting eight home runs, four triples, and 10 doubles. Despite a modest 6.3% walk rate and a high 25% strikeout rate, his power numbers have been strong, albeit in a hitter-friendly environment.
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