H/W: 6-2 185 lb. B/T: S/L DOB: 10/9/86
While the baseball world was paying homage to the likes of David Price, Madison Bumgarner, and Clayton Kershaw, this former 2006 25th round draft and follow prospect quietly launched himself into the elite class of LHP. Holland pitched at three stops in ’08 compiling a 13-1 record with a 2.27 ERA and 40 BB/157 K in 150.2 IP. Holland features a fastball that sits between 93-95 MPH, though it touches 97 at times. His slider and changeup also have the potential to be plus pitches at the major league level. In addition to his pure stuff, Holland had good control and aggressively goes after hitters. He allowed just 3 HR last season and his 1.20 GO/FO ratio in hitter-friendly leagues shows that he is very effective in keeping the ball down (which will be key in Arlington). The biggest challenge for Holland at this point is to continue his performance against more advanced hitters. He still needs to refine his off speed pitches, but all in all, Holland is one of the top pitchers in Texas’ immensely talented system.
2009 Projection: Holland should be headed back to AA Frisco for a while before earning a promotion to AAA Oklahoma City. The Rangers have several holes in their MLB rotation and it is not out of the question to think that Holland may earn a call up later in the season. The Rangers have shown a recent proclivity to aggressively promote their brighter prospects (Chris Davis, Max Ramirez, Eric Hurley). Watch to see how he performs in spring training as it should give us more of an indicator to see just how fast Holland’s track to the major leagues will be. Regardless, his 2008 Bowman Chrome Draft autos promise to be valued commodities.
Key Derek Holland Baseball Cards:
· 2008 Bowman Chrome Draft Auto
 2011 Topps #413 Derek Holland Rangers $0.99 |
 2012 Topps Heritage Base 297 Derek Holland Rangers $0.99 |
 2012 Topps Opening Day Base #72 Derek Holland Rangers $0.99 |
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