The Pittsburgh Pirates were somewhat of an interesting team to watch this offseason.
They are obviously not expected to be a contending ballclub in 2023.
However, they did sign a few key veterans in left-hander Rich Hill and former slugger and 2013 National League MVP Andrew McCutchen.
Pittsburgh has a young core that is looking to help the team take a step towards relevance this season.
Having Hill around should be beneficial for several of the team’s young pitchers, and it appears to be paying off already.
On Twitter, Pirates insider Justice delos Santos posted a photo of Hill helping young right-hander Johan Oviedo by assisting him with his breaking ball.
Rich Hill, 42, assists Johan Oviedo, 24, with his breaking ball following Oviedo's bullpen session on Feb. 17, 2023 at Pirate City in Bradenton.
(Photo: Justice delos Santos) pic.twitter.com/chXxk3s55t
— Justice delos Santos (@justdelossantos) February 17, 2023
This photo was taken following the conclusion of Oviedo’s bullpen session.
Hill was signed to a one-year deal and could be a veteran presence that the team leans on in the clubhouse, as well as in the rotation.
But clearly, Hill is embracing his role as mentor and veteran leader on a young Pirates team.
The 42-year-old spent the 2022 season with the Boston Red Sox.
He arrived in the Major Leagues in 2006 with the Chicago Cubs.
He has also spent time with the Baltimore Orioles, Cleveland Indians, Los Angeles Angels, New York Yankees, Oakland Athletics, Los Angeles Dodgers, Minnesota Twins, Tampa Bay Rays, and New York Mets.
Needless to say, Hill has been around for quite some time and knows a thing or two about pitching at the big-league level, which he appears to be passing on to Oviedo, who is still early in his career.
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