Dodgers' Rich Hill Out Until at Least August With Flexor Strain

Rich Hill is headed back to the Injured List.

After missing some of the first half of the season with an injury, 39-year-old Hill made his return to Los Angeles and picked up right where he left off. A 2.55 ERA and 5.08 K-to-BB ratio in 53 innings pitched had many thinking that he was not only back, but due for an All-Star Game appearance.

However, after being forced to exit after just one inning in his most recent start against the Giants, Hill was diagnosed with a flexor strain, meaning the veteran lefty will have to miss some more time.

Rich Hill took himself out of the game while warming up for his second inning tonight. A scout in attendance noticed Hill was taking extra time after each of his first-inning curveballs. He did hold his fastball velocity throughout the inning.
— Pedro Moura (@pedromoura) June 20, 2019

Hill has had a history of injuries, especially as of late, and this only adds on to that mountain. However, it is encouraging that Hill was the one to remove himself, as opposed to trying to play through it. Flexor strains are never a good thing to play around with, and it might've gotten even worse had Hill gone six or seven innings.

Rich Hill is exiting this game before the start of the 2nd inning.
— Jorge Castillo (@jorgecastillo) June 20, 2019

With the Dodgers appearing to be runaway favorites for their division again, all hands need to be on deck for the postseason. If Hill missing time in July and August means he's fully healthy for October, I don't think you'll find an upset Dodger fan.