Phillies Rumors: Team Interested In RP Greg Holland?
By Gary Brinson
The Phillies are reportedly interested in former Royals closer and all-star Greg Holland. Would he fit? What would a deal look like?
The Phillies are certainly committed to improving their bullpen. After acquiring RP Pat Neshek from the Astros, the team now has reportedly shown interest in another former all-star reliever.
According to Jon Heyman of fanragsports.com, the Phils were of one of the teams in attendance for former Kansas City Royals closer Greg Holland showcase in Phoenix on Monday.
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Who Is Greg Holland?
Holland, 30, is coming off Tommy John surgery, so there’s expected caution wherever he signs. He’s been out since mid-September 2015, just prior to the Royals 2015 World Series run.
Pre-surgery, Holland was marvelous for Kansas City. From 2011-2014, Holland posted a superb 1.86 ERA (1.92 FIP), averaged 12.6 K/9, with 113 saves in 256.1 innings of work. Holland also made two all-star game appearances in that stretch.
However in 2015, Hollands production dipped. And before being shut-down he finished with a career-high 3.83 ERA, and a career worst 9.9 K/9 in 44.2 innings pitched.
So while caution should be expected, there’s still a chance he’ll be pretty darn good.
How Do The Phillies And Holland Fit?
The Phils sit in good spot for a rebuilding player like Holland for two simple reasons, money and opportunity.
Holland is a closer. He’d probably prefer to stay in his comfort upon returning to the majors. The team can offer him that opportunity on a full-time basis immediately, that’s a huge help in talks. The clubs money to play with is a huge asset in the teams rebuild, they could easily offer Holland the highest guaranteed money, while also including multiple incentives to make to deal even sweeter.
Next: Phillies Free Agency Target: Outfielder Colby Rasmus
There is a logical fit between the two; with the potential to really payoff well for the Phils considering the need for quality arms out of the bullpen and the limited risk financially.
Stay tuned to TBOH for further updates.