Derek Holland Prepares for ’14 Rangers Debut

Apr 28, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers starting pitcher Derek Holland (45) on the bench during the game against the Oakland Athletics at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Oakland beat Texas 4-0. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

It’s been nearly eight months since a flight of stairs and boxer started a Rangers’ ’14 rotation slated with injuries. Derek is now finally eyeing a much anticipated return by Rangers fans. With the exception of Colby Lewis, every other starter is currently on the disabled list from the opening day roster. As an avid Rangers fan, even I find myself struggling to get excited over the matchups now days. I will admit, the pitching has become much better since the break, but with the offense plummeting, wins still are still few and far between.

“I was messing around with my dog, just clowning around, and from that, I was deciding to take off from him and run up the stairs.”

In January, Derek Holland had micro fracture surgery, which put him on crutches for six weeks. Reflecting on the incident, Derek explains, “I was messing around with my dog, just clowning around, and from that, I was deciding to take off from him and run up the stairs.” Holland continued, “he came from behind me, clipped me from the back of the legs and I fell down the steps “‘

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Derek has been saying for a couple months that he is ready to come back, but given the disastrous season the Rangers have been having, they have wisely elected to be cautious. Reports on Derek’s health have been rather positive; that was until early this week Derek tweaked his back. Team Officials say that Derek will be alright and is slated to make his final rehab start on Thursday night.

As a fan, expect to see spurts of the old Derek Holland. Remember, no matter how well, or how bad Derek pitches, he is not going to make an impact on THIS season. We can only hope that Derek can hit the ground running (on two good legs) and pick up next year where he will (hopefully) leave off this year. Meanwhile, I believe I speak for the entire Ranger Nation when I say, “Welcome Home Derek!”