The Tigers have signed pitcher Shawn Hill to a minor league deal, according to mlive.com’s James Schmehl.
Hill elected free agency after he was removed from Toronto’s 40-man roster in October. In 89 2/3 innings with the Las Vegas 51s, Toronto’s Triple-A club, Hill had a 4.52 ERA and a 4.46 FIP. Hill pitched in the independent leagues in 2011 after recovering from thoracic outlet syndrome. He had been experiencing elbow pain for several seasons before having surgery.
In his seven seasons as a big leaguer, Hill has pitched with the Expos/Nationals, Padres and Blue Jays. He had his best season in 2007, when he posted a 3.42 ERA in 97 1/3 innings with the Nationals. Hill will likely provide starter depth in Triple-A for the Tigers.
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