May 23, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Rich Hill (18) is greeted in the dugout after the final out of the eighth inning against the Seattle Mariners at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

The Toronto Blue Jays are reportedly interested in Rich Hill, but is the pitcher really the answer as they continue their quest for a second-straight postseason appearance?

With the August 1st trade deadline looming, the Toronto Blue Jays continue to look for ways to strengthen their roster. While this is the first time since 1992 they have reached 50 wins before the All-Star break, they have the right mindset in wanting to improve the team.

If the latest reports are to be believed, this includes taking a look at Rich Hill. According to the San Francisco Chronicle‘s Susan Slusser, the Blue Jays have had scouts present at Hill’s two starts since he came off the disabled list.

Hill recently missed a month of action for the Oakland Athletics, while dealing with a groin strain. He has shown little sign of rust since his return, with two excellent performances, including a 10-strike, one-run performance in Thursday’s 3-1 win over the Houston Astros.

In truth, the 2002 fourth round draft pick’s recent production probably shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise. He has a 9-3 record in 13 starts this season, with an ERA of 2.25 and a 1.09 WHIP.

While Hill’s durability issues are of some concern, he is still a top target for a number of teams. Reports indicate that – among others – the Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers and Kansas City Royals are all interested in the veteran pitcher.

In that respect, the 36-year old’s age dictates what you would be getting if you trade for him. Effectively, he is a short-term solution, which probably ties in with what the Blue Jays want at this stage of the campaign. (He will also become a free agent at the conclusion of this season.)

Given the front office’s focus on strengthening the pitching depth, bringing in Hill would certainly help. If the Jays really do intend to move Aaron Sanchez to the bullpen – and they shouldn’t – they would have a ready-made replacement.

Of course, there is the question of what the Blue Jays would have to give up for the Milton, Massachusetts native? Overall though, he is definitely worth inquiring about, especially if this is a taste of what Blue Jays fans can expect:

What do you make of the Blue Jays apparent interest in Rich Hill? Is he worth pursuing as a short-term solution, or is the front office better served focusing their attention elsewhere? Let us know in the comments section below.