Dark Horse Teams
Washington Nationals:
After another disappointing first-round playoff exit for the Washington Nationals, the team looks for one more shot at a World Series in 2018. After the 2018 season, superstar Bryce Harper becomes a free agent.
In 2017, the Nationals dealt with closer trouble in the first half of the season with Blake Treinen as their closer. Near the trade deadline, the Nationals acquired both Sean Doolittle, Ryan Madson and Brandon Kintzler. After the acquisitions, the bullpen troubles faded away.
Doolittle took over as closer and was nearly perfect. He converted 21 out of 22 saves with a 2.40 ERA. As of now, Doolittle is the closer heading into 2018.
The Nationals could survive without signing Greg Holland, but why not make a good bullpen, a stellar bullpen? Holland could give the Nationals a considerable bullpen edge. Imagine a team with four relievers that could be a viable closing option that’d be the Nationals if they signed Holland.
Los Angeles Angels:
So far the winners of the offseason, the Los Angeles Angels, who could use another arm in their bullpen, could add Holland and insert a dominant closer.
Last season, one of the strongest assets for the Angels was their bullpen. Even with a good bullpen, the Angels didn’t have a specific closer throughout the season.
Eight different relievers recorded a save for the Angels in 2017. At the end of the season, Blake Parker took over the closer’s role and looks to hold the spot heading into 2018.
Although if the Angels decide to sign Holland, they can bolster their bullpen and land a definitive closer. With improvements to the Angels offense, adding depth to their bullpen could play a significant factor in them making the playoffs in 2018.
No matter where Greg Holland ends up next season, he should play a prominent role in the success of that franchise and how they do going forward.