San Francisco Giants’ Tim Hudson keeps on rolling at 39

Tim Hudson has dominated hitters for years by keeping the ball low and taking advantage of a sinker that is one of the best in the game.

At age 39, things haven’t changed much for the now-four-time All-Star. He’s returned to the West Coast, where he built his reputation as a member of the Oakland Athletics early in his career. Sure, he may now don the orange and black of the San Francisco Giants, but his dominance on the mound has not changed in the slightest.

His 7-6 record isn’t much to be impressed with, but his 2.87 ERA in 119 innings of work definitely caught some eyes of late. Should he continue that performance, it would be his lowest single-season earned run average since 2010, when he pitched for the Atlanta Braves – a season in which he was also named an All-Star.

The San Jose Mercury News talked with Hudson about being named to this year’s squad, after initially being left off the roster, recently.

"“I feel very blessed, and it’s an honor,” he said. “It’s great to represent the Giants. I’ve been able to represent every team I’ve played for throughout my career.”"

In his big league career, which spans 16 seasons spent with Oakland, Atlanta and San Francisco, Hudson is 212-117 with a 3.42 earned run average. This season marks a comeback from a devastating ankle injury he sustained with the Braves – a testament to the grittiness and determination the right-hander has become known for.

Hall of Fame-worthy? That remains to be seen. One thing is for sure, though. There are few who have been as consistent as Hudson.