Texas Rangers Targeting Closer Greg Holland This Off-Season?

Finding reliable pitching is going to be the main concern of the Texas Rangers front office this winter. Could veteran closer Greg Holland be an option for the Rangers in 2018?

This is an odd scenario for the Texas Rangers, and they need to decide what direction they want to go quickly. If the organization wants to compete in 2018 then they will likely need to add a veteran reliever arm with closing experience.

Currently, lefty Alex Claudio is the Rangers “closer” since he saw almost of the opportunities in the second half of the season. It worked in 2017, but the organization might need Claudio in other spots other than the ninth inning role.

The 25-year-old lefty appeared in 70 games posting a 2.50 ERA and recorded 11 saves. He is the most reliable lefty pitcher that organization has currently, and they need him in more than just the ninth inning.

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Adding an arm like veteran reliever Greg Holland makes sense, and could benefit the organization. The 31-year-old closer is hitting the open market this winter, but he’s going to come with a hefty price tag.

The price for reliable relief pitching has increased rapidly in the MLB, and it won’t be going down anytime soon. Holland is coming off an All-Star campaign and just declined a $15 million option for 2018 with the Rockies.

It’s not surprising Holland is after big money this winter. He went 3-6 with a 3.61 ERA in 61 games with a league leading 58 games finished and league leading 41 saves. He’s not the same hard-throwing pitcher he used to be, but Holland is still an elite closing pitcher.

The Rangers are going to need a pitcher like Holland on their roster next season. It will cost Texas in payroll, but could pay off in the long run and help get the Rangers another chance in the postseason.