Ken Hill's journey through Major League Baseball is a tale of perseverance and skill. Born on December 14, 1965, in Lynn, Massachusetts, Hill grew up with a passion for baseball that would eventually lead him to the professional stage. He attended Mount Vernon High School in Alexandria, Virginia, where his talent on the mound began to attract attention.
Hill's professional career began when he was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in the fourth round of the 1984 MLB Draft. However, it was with the St. Louis Cardinals that he made his major league debut. On September 3, 1988, Hill took the mound for the Cardinals, marking the start of a career that would span over a decade. During his time with the Cardinals, Hill developed into a reliable starting pitcher, showcasing his ability to handle the pressures of major league play.
In 1991, Hill was traded to the Montreal Expos, where he would enjoy some of the best years of his career. His tenure with the Expos was highlighted by a standout season in 1994, when he posted a 16-5 record with a 3.32 ERA. This performance earned him a spot on the National League All-Star team and placed him second in the Cy Young Award voting that year. Hill's success with the Expos was instrumental in the team's strong performance during the strike-shortened 1994 season.
Following his time with the Expos, Hill was traded to the Cleveland Indians in 1995. With the Indians, he continued to demonstrate his pitching prowess, helping the team reach the World Series that year. Although the Indians ultimately fell to the Atlanta Braves, Hill's contributions were a vital part of the team's postseason run.
Hill's career continued with stints at several other teams, including the Texas Rangers, Anaheim Angels, and Chicago White Sox. In 1996, while with the Rangers, he achieved a 16-10 record, further solidifying his reputation as a dependable starter. His ability to adapt to different teams and maintain a consistent level of performance was a testament to his skill and work ethic.
Throughout his career, Hill was known for his fastball and his ability to keep hitters off balance with a mix of pitches. His pitching style and competitive nature made him a valuable asset to every team he played for. Despite the challenges and changes that come with a long career in professional sports, Hill remained a steady presence on the mound.
Ken Hill's career in Major League Baseball concluded after the 2001 season.
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