Hill, 45, Gets The Nod: Royals' Starting Lineup Vs. Cubs

James

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Post on Jul 23, 2025

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Hill, 45, Gets the Nod: Royals' Starting Lineup vs. Cubs

Veteran Left-hander to Face Chicago in Crucial Series Opener

Kansas City, MO – The Kansas City Royals announced their starting lineup for tonight's crucial series opener against the Chicago Cubs, and veteran left-hander Rich Hill, at age 45, will be taking the mound. This surprising, yet strategic, decision by manager Matt Quatraro has sent ripples through the baseball world, igniting conversations about the enduring power of experience and the Royals' unexpected playoff push. Hill's selection highlights the Royals' commitment to leveraging veteran savvy amidst a young and burgeoning roster.

This isn't just another game; this series against the Cubs holds significant implications for the Royals' postseason hopes. Currently battling for a Wild Card spot, every win is critical. Quatraro's choice in Hill suggests a calculated risk, prioritizing experience and guile over sheer velocity in a high-stakes matchup.

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The Lineup:

The Royals' lineup for tonight's game showcases a blend of youth and experience, mirroring their overall team strategy:

1. Whit Merrifield (RF)
2. Bobby Witt Jr. (SS)
3. Salvador Perez (C)
4. Vinnie Pasquantino (1B)
5. MJ Melendez (DH)
6. Edward Olivares (LF)
7. Nate Eaton (CF)
8. Nicky Lopez (2B)
9. Michael Massey (3B)

This lineup emphasizes on-base percentage and power hitting, strategically designed to exploit any weaknesses in the Cubs' pitching. The inclusion of veterans like Merrifield and Perez provides crucial stability and leadership for the younger players.

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Hill's Resilience: A Testament to Longevity in Baseball

Hill's inclusion in the starting rotation is a remarkable story. At 45, he's defying the odds, proving that experience and masterful pitching can compensate for a slight decrease in velocity. His career trajectory has been anything but predictable, marked by periods of injury and resurgence. He’s become a symbol of perseverance and a testament to the longevity possible in professional baseball. [Link to Rich Hill's MLB career stats]

This season, while his fastball might not be as explosive as in his prime, Hill has showcased his exceptional control, pinpoint accuracy, and cunning ability to outsmart batters. He relies heavily on his curveball and changeup, keeping hitters off balance and inducing weak contact. His extensive experience allows him to read hitters and adjust his strategy on the fly.

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The Cubs' Challenge:

The Cubs present a formidable challenge. Their offense is potent, boasting a lineup full of established stars and rising talent. Hill will need to be at his best to navigate their potent batting order. The Royals' defense will also play a crucial role in preventing runs and capitalizing on any offensive opportunities.

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Looking Ahead:

Tonight's game is a critical turning point for the Royals. Hill's performance will be crucial in determining the outcome of this crucial series. Will his experience and cunning outsmart the Cubs' young guns? Only time will tell. Follow us for live updates and post-game analysis!

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