What Alex Cora Made Clear About Rich Hill’s Return To Red Sox

The Red Sox didn’t roll out the red carpet for Rich Hill when they brought him back for another go-around with the organization.

Boston signed Hill to a minor-league contract Saturday, five days after fellow left-hander James Paxton landed on the 15-day injured list with a calf strain. Alex Cora, citing Hill’s “diligence” in his preparation, believes the Mass. native will be “ready” whenever his number is called. But make no mistake, the Red Sox didn’t make any guarantees to the 44-year-old when they signed him for the fourth time.

“Let’s see what happens,” Cora told reporters before Sunday’s loss in Baltimore. “Obviously going to Worcester, and there’s no promises, first. And second, if it happens, we know, he can start, he can open, he can come in leverage (situations). But first things first, let’s get him back on the mound, back to competing, and then we’ll go from there.”

The Red Sox’s familiarity with Hill seemed to play a role in the late-season reunion. Cora noted how the franchise knows the southpaw will “bring intensity” and a high compete level that should mesh well with the group. Another veteran presence also could be beneficial in a clubhouse that features many young and inexperienced players.

But as Cora explained, the Red Sox aren’t putting the cart before the horse. Hill will first try to earn a roster spot in Boston by pitching well with Worcester.