Royals Rumors: Potential starting pitchers on market for 2017 deadline
DEREK HOLLAND (CHICAGO WHITE SOX)
5-9 record, 5.01 ERA, 1.516 WHIP (Free agent in 2018)
This one probably isn’t likely due to trading within the division typically being frowned upon, but Derek Holland is someone to keep an eye on. Holland’s numbers aren’t very good, which is why I’d prefer the Royals not seek a trade for him, but he’d be an affordable starter to add, and that’s what the club is looking to do.
The left-handed starter for the White Sox had a nice start to the season, but has really struggled over the past few months. It doesn’t appear that White Sox fans would be too sad to see him go, as he has not been good as of lately.
Do you guys remember like three starts into the year when Derek Holland was a Cy Young caliber pitcher?
— South Side Chatter (@whitesoxbullpen) July 8, 2017
With the Royals needing back end help in the rotation, Derek Holland fits that mold. His above five ERA is not attractive at all, but he might be the best that the Royals can get on the market with what little they have to offer.
It’s obvious that the White Sox aren’t planning on contending this year, given their trade of Jose Quintana to the Cubs, so Holland will more than likely be available to whoever is the highest bidder. I don’t see a team with plenty of prospects going after him rather than Sonny Gray or a bigger name on the trade block.
While this is a feasible option for the Royals, I’d rather they just stand pat than acquire someone with a 5.01 ERA. Pass.