The Colorado Rockies officially announced the signing of relief pitcher Greg Holland to a one-year deal Saturday morning. A press conference was held after the announcement, allowing for Holland and general manager Jeff Bridich to talk about the singing and what the future holds in store.
In correspondence with the signing, the Rockies designated Eddie Butler for assignment.
Holland is a two-time All-Star, World Series champion and Mariano Rivera Award winner. His long list of accolades and success in closing games at the professional level were all reasons the Rockies decided to pull the trigger on a deal.
“We are really excited to welcome the man sitting to my left, Greg Holland,” Bridich said at Holland’s introductory press conference. “His place in this game, and what he has done in this game are pretty well established. One of the things that certainly jumps off the page and excites you with a pitcher of his caliber is what he has been able to do so far in this game.”
There were a lot of different factors Holland took into account before making a decision on where to play next year, but he eventually wound up choosing the Rockies because of the opportunity to be part of something special.
“They’ve got a very young roster and a very good lineup,” Holland said. “Looking at the way they played last year, I thought they were really close to making the playoffs. I thought I could help add one more piece to that bullpen and make it successful.”
Holland will be joining the newly signed Mike Dunn in the Rockies’ bullpen, as well as Jake McGee, Carlos Estevez and Adam Ottavino as the go-to pitchers late in games. As it stands, with the addition of Holland, this Rockies bullpen has just about as much promise as any bullpen in the franchise’s history.
The big question surrounding Holland is how his elbow will hold up following Tommy John surgery. Holland reassured on Saturday that he feels great and has had no impediments on his road to recovery.
“I fully anticipate being ready to go come day one of Spring Training,” Holland said. “I feel really healthy – healthier than I have felt in a long time … Right now my throwing program is very similar to what it would be in a normal offseason. I’m in a really good spot going into camp.”
His career ERA of 2.42 and ability to save games under pressure will have him vying for the closer’s role entering camp.
2017 will be an exciting one for the Rockies; however, the direction the team heads in this season will hinge upon the bullpen, something Holland has now officially become a part of.
Featured Image Credit: Twitter, Aniello Piro
