RICH HILL TRADED TO ORIOLES

Former Al Thomas A's and University of Michigan lefty Rich Hill was traded Monday to the Baltimore Orioles. The Miltonite found himself in a logjam of pitchers at the beginning of the 2008 season with the Cubs, and after a 1-0 start, he was sent to AAA Iowa to work on some mechanics. A bothersome back plagued Rich the entire season as he struggled to regain his command with the ailment.

Having spent a few months pitching in Venezuela this winter, Hill was hoping to pinpoint the cause of his back problems and put the affliction behind him. Now, although he enters a fiercely competitive American League East, Rich is looking forward to a fresh start in a new organization. He will be given every opportunity to make the rotation out of spring training.