Astros: Is there any room for Greg Holland in the bullpen?

Don’t think the Astros will be adding any more bullpen pieces.

There was a time that teams would have traded many prospects away to trade for Greg Holland. When he was with the Royals, he was one of the elite relievers in the game, until he needed Tommy John surgery. He bounced back well striking out 70 batters in 57 1/3 innings with a 3.61 ERA. He’s available for the Astros.

Last year, he signed a one year deal with the Colorado Rockies last year to rebuild his value, which he did. While he wasn’t as dominant as he was with the Royals, he still accumulated 41 saves.

A look at the closer market.

The closer market took a big hit when Zach Britton got injured and will miss time this year. The Orioles were looking for a haul for Britton at the trade deadline and their was some he said she said after talks fell apart. When Britton returns and proves he is healthy again, he will be a trade target at the deadline. With Ken Giles struggles in October, many Astros fans suggest a change at closer is needed.

Wade Davis was on the market, but he was scooped up by the Rockies. Davis agreed to a three-year deal with Colorado for $52 million. That was way out of the Astros ballpark, so I’m sure they were not involved in talks.

After investing in Joe Smith and Hector Rondon, there may not be room in the bullpen. There may not even be room for Anthony Gose, a surprise Rule 5 selection for the Astros. With arms like Joe Musgrove, Brad Peacock, and Chris Devenski, another reliever may be too much. Unless we are looking for a closer to replace Giles.

May have interest in Holland?

Enter Jon Heyman and his ability to generate rumors. Heyman suggests that the Cardinals are the logical spot for Holland. Thanks Mr. Spock, but who are the backups? Heyman suggests that the Astros “may” be another team looking for a closer.

The Astros pitching staff is loaded, it’s hard to see them adding more. If they were to make any additions, it would be a starter if we lose Dallas Keuchel in free agency. Holland won’t cost as much as Davis did, but he is 32. Don’t see the Astros giving him a four-year deal.

Next: Astros Rumors: Team is seeking long-term catching options

It is my opinion that the Astros have added all they will in the bullpen. If Holland was a left-handed reliever, things might change. The Astros will monitor the market and see if the prices will come down. If they spend money, it will be for the rotation.

***Stats from Baseball-Reference***