Chicago Cubs Rumors: Some interest being shown in Greg Holland

It seems as if the Chicago Cubs’ front office is always working. Now comes word that the Cubs might be interested in Greg Holland. After missing out on Wade Davis, could another former Royal fill the need at closer?

The Chicago Cubs knew that a closer was a top priority this offseason. While the hope was that they would be able to sign Wade Davis, they were aware that might not be the case. After the Colorado Rockies signed him to a three-year, $52 million deal, it appears that Holland won’t fit into the Rockies plans. But will he get a deal anything like Davis?

It’s rumored that Holland set out to get a five-year deal, but that is unlikely to happen. Davis was the best closer available on the market and only signed a three-year contract. The biggest ever, but still just three years. And outside of the talk that Bryce Harper might want to play in Chicago next season, the two teams now have someone else to fight about.

Strong at the start, weak to finish

Holland was an All-Star for the third time last season, but his numbers were a little suspect after the break. In the first half, Holland was near untouchable, saving 28 out of 29 games and posting a 1.62 ERA. He held opponents to a .161 average while allowing just two home runs in the first half.

It was in the second half that the wheels seem to have come off for Holland. He saved just 13 games in the second half, blowing three opportunities. He also was 2-5 while allowing a 6.38 ERA. While he allowed a .232 average to opponents, his BAbip was a .270. He also gave up five home runs in just 24 innings.

A certain amount can be taken by the fact that he pitches at Coors Field. But he struggled just as much away from home as he did at Coors, allowing a 3.90 ERA and a 1.120 WHIP. For the most part, what you see is what you get from Holland.

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We should point out that he did have Tommy John surgery and missed the entire 2016 season. It’s possible that he simply wore down and didn’t have the endurance to keep up those numbers all season. But is that the guy you want to take a chance on as your closer when you’re in the middle of a championship window?

The Cubs and Nationals could very well be playing games with each other, trying to drive the price up on one another. The Cubs DO need another arm at the backend of the bullpen. I’m just not sure that Holland is the one they’re looking for.