Marc Hill, a former Major League catcher and coach who spent more than three decades in professional baseball, passed away Sunday. He carved out a 15-year career on the field and another 17 years as a coach.
Hill is survived by his wife, Judy, his three children and their families, seven grandchildren, and his sister, Marcia.
Drafted in the 10th round by the St. Louis Cardinals in 1970, Hill went on to play five seasons in St. Louis before being traded to the San Francisco Giants, where he spent another five years. He finished his playing career with the Chicago White Sox, highlighted by catching legends such as Tom Seaver, Steve Carlton, and Bob Gibson. Among his proudest moments were throwing out Lou Brock six of seven times in a series, being part of the White Sox’s 1983 division title, and above all, “living my dad’s dream.” His father, Edward “Pokey” Hill, once played in the St. Louis Browns farm system.
After his playing days, Hill remained heavily invested baseball, serving as a manager, bullpen coach, and catching instructor with the Astros, Yankees, Mariners, and Pirates. One of his most memorable coaching years came in 1992 when he guided Seattle’s farm team in Newport News to a division crown and earned Manager of the Year honors. He also managed the now defunct River City Rascals, just outside of St. Louis, in 2003, staying close to the game he loved.
Hill’s career spanned more than three decades in professional baseball, but his biggest impact extended beyond the diamond. He dedicated his life to family, faith, and the values instilled in him from an early age, leaving behind a legacy as both a ballplayer and a mentor.
