Former Calallen pitcher Kyle Hill returns to Corpus Christi as member of Mariners organization

Former Calallen pitcher Kyle Hill will always have his time in Corpus Christi to look back on for good memory.

Hill put together a remarkable high school career, which included a key role in helping the Wildcats advance to the regional final back in 2015.

Hill went on to have a successful college career at Baylor, concluding the 2019 season as the first Baylor pitcher since 1999 to earn First Team All-American honors.

Hill was rewarded for his stellar play by being drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the 10th round of the 2019 MLB Draft.

Fast forward to 2024 and the 27-year-old Hill was back in the Coastal Bend, but this time as a Double-A pitcher for the Arkansas Travelers. The Travelers are currently playing a six-game series against the Hooks at Whataburger Field.

"It's awesome, and it's home to me," Hill said about returning to Corpus Christi. "I grew up here since I was 8 years old and I played with the Oil Belt Little League, played at Calallen. Finally getting to come back to see my family and friends is an indescribable feeling."

Hill has pitched two innings during his homecoming, including a bounce-back performance on Thursday when he struck out three batters in one inning to help secure a 6-2 win.

Hill, like his first performance on Tuesday, had dozens of family and friends in attendance.

"I knew once I got the call to Double-A, I'd be here in Corpus Christi playing in front of my friends and family," Hill said. "It's so surreal coming home. I remember pitching at Whataburger Field during the playoffs, so to be back here is awesome."

Hill learned about his promotion during the second week of spring training and was filled with emotion. He previously pitched at High-A with the Everett Aqua Sox since the 2021 minor league season.

"It brought a little tear to my eye because of all the hard work I've put in to get here," Hill said. "Being able to see my parents, grandparents, nephews, cousins, it was awesome."

Hill also had the opportunity to visit the current Calallen baseball team on Monday at Steve Chapman Stadium.

Hill said he was impressed with the young talent on the Wildcats, which includes seven sophomores who are starting and a pitching staff that is loaded with underclassmen.

Calallen is currently playing a best-of-three series against Needville in the regional semifinals. The Wildcats won Game 1 Thursday night and can punch a ticket to the regional final with a win on Friday.

Hill hopes his success on the field can help set the tone for this year's Calallen baseball team and other Coastal Bend players who dream of reaching the major leagues.

"Anything is possible when you put your mind to it," Hill said. "I played at Oil Belt back in the day, went to Calallen, went to Baylor and now I'm with the Mariners. Baseball is tough and baseball is not forever so when you do get your opportunity, make the most of it."