New baseball terminology: The Hillux

by Fred Hofstetter on September 3, 2017

Rich Hill's remarkable 9 no-hit inning loss in 99 pitches hearkens to baseball legends like Greg Maddux and sad sack legends like Charlie Brown.

Rich Hill with Pained Facial Expression

Baseball is pain. Photo Credit: Keith Allison

The Hillux combines two types of pitching performances:

  1. A “Maddux” – throw a complete game shutout in 99 or fewer pitches.
  2. A “Hill” – throw 9 no-hit innings and lose anyway.

Thus the “Hillux”: when a pitcher throws a complete game shutout and loses in 99 or fewer pitches.

To be used when something impossible is suggested. Examples:

You’re more likely to see a Hillux than see the Isotopes in the World Series this year.
I’ll believe Mark Reynolds shortened up on two strikes the day I see a Hillux.
If Chris Carter hits .300 this year, I’m a Hillux.

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