Closers Aroldis Chapman, Kenley Jansen and Mark Melancon headlined the crop of free-agent relievers this offseason, though their high price tags eliminated a number of clubs from consideration. In that instance, Greg Holland represents an intriguing alternative.
Holland missed all of last season after undergoing Tommy John surgery to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his throwing elbow. Kansas City Royals manager Ned Yost revealed his one-time closer pitched through discomfort for much of the 2015 season.
Last November, Holland held his first public throwing session since the October 2015 operation. The Los Angeles Dodgers, who had yet to re-sign Jansen, were among the clubs in attendance.
The Dodgers have not been publicly connected to Holland since Jansen’s return, though previous reports indicated Los Angeles had interest in a bullpen that featured both right-handers.
While Holland has yet to arrive at a free-agency decision, he is expected to soon sign a contract, according to ESPN’s Jim Bowden:
Greg Holland is getting close to deciding on his next team maybe within next 7 days or so including to source close to player.
— Jim Bowden (@JimBowden_ESPN) January 18, 2017
The Colorado Rockies were said to have submitted a multiyear contract to Holland. Rockies general manager Jeff Bridrich refused to confirm the report, but acknowledged his club had interest in the former Royals closer.
The Washington Nationals, who failed to re-sign Melancon and finished second in the sweepstakes for Jansen, presumably are a team to watch in Holland’s market.
Pitching through injury, Holland finished the 2015 season with 32 saves, a 3.83 ERA, 3.27 FIP and 1.46 WHIP. In the two seasons prior, he recorded a combined 93 saves with a 1.32 ERA, averaged 13.4 strikeouts per nine innings and was twice named an All-Star.
The 31-year-old reportedly is seeking a multiyear contract that includes an opt-out clause after the first year. The Dodgers, who still have a need in their bullpen, may only be interested in signing relievers to one-year contracts.
