MLB Free Agency: Possible landing spots for Greg Holland
By Anthony Sosa
Chicago Cubs
Last offseason, the Chicago Cubs traded outfielder Jorge Soler to the Kansas City Royals for All-Star closer Wade Davis. With that move, the Cubs solidified the closer’s role for the 2017 season.
The 32-year-old posted a 2.30 ERA, 79 strikeouts and converted 32 out of 33 saves. But when the Cubs acquired Davis, they knew it was likely just for one season because he was hitting free agency this offseason.
In December, Davis signed a three-year, $52 million deal with the Rockies. The deal includes a mutual option in 2021. Now that Davis is in Colorado, the Cubs need to fill the void again at the closer’s position. The Cubs could sign Holland for that spot.
After winning the World Series in 2016, the Cubs suffered from a World Series hangover in 2017 but still managed to win the NL Central. Heading into the 2018 season, the Cubs roster is relatively similar.
They already made an addition to their bullpen this offseason. In December, the Cubs and free agent Brandon Morrow agreed on a two-year, $21 million deal with a team option in 2020.
As it stands right now, Morrow would more than likely be the closer if the season started today. Although, Morrow’s dealt with arm issues in the past. After a stellar season as a reliever with the Dodgers, Morrow could regress a bit in 2018.
The Cubs could sign Holland and lock up a consistent reliever for the closer’s role. The Cubs’ roster remains strong, and with a talented closer like Greg Holland, the Cubs could make a run at another World Series.