Bobby

Hill

A poorly-timed injury for Hill, who has had eight straight multihit games.

From a fantasy perspective, that’s not good. Hill’s success in this role will only discourage manager Lloyd McClendon from using him in the starting lineup.

With Shea Hillenbrand out of the picture, it’s very possible that the Cubs will eventually acquire Lowell from Florida. Getting traded to the Marlins wouldn’t do anything for Hill’s short-term value. Instead, Hill would probably remain in Triple-A until September and take over as Florida’s second baseman next year.

Hill’s back tightened up on him after a game Friday and put a strain on his hamstrings. Last year his season was cut short by back problems, making him an even riskier pick this year.

The Pirates hope to have Hill, Freddy Sanchez and Jason Bay close to 100 percent for the start of spring training. Hill seems to be in better shape than the other two at the moment. Bay is the one to be concerned about, as he’s coming back from a torn labrum. Sanchez should be fine with another month to rest his ankle.

Reliever Francis Beltran, just called up yesterday, could be headed right back to Iowa. If Hill is called up, he’s expected to see some time at third base with the Cubs.

The Pirates may instead opt for relief prospect Francis Beltran.

Hendry was responding to a question about when Hill could be called up to assist with the Cubs’ shortage of middle infielders. There was no definitive answer, and the Pirates still could select Hill as a PTBN from an earlier trade.

Just as well. We’d like to see Hill get more playing time, but not if it comes at the expense of Jason Bay or Ruben Mateo.

It’s overdue. After all, the Pirates gave up Aramis Ramirez for Hill, and now are asking for a major-league ready third base prospect for Kris Benson. Might as well try Bobby first. However, even though Hill’s been hot and has his average up to .280, it’s been rather empty. He has just one homer and a very discouraging zero in the stolen base column.