CHICAGO -- The White Sox are close to finalizing a deal with left-handed hurler Derek Holland, a Major League source confirmed to MLB.com on Wednesday.
Holland, who turned 30 in August, pitched the first eight seasons of his career with the Texas Rangers. He finished with a 7-9 record and a 4.95 ERA over 22 games and 20 starts during the 2016 campaign. In 2011, Holland posted a 16-5 mark with a 3.95 ERA, and in 2013, Holland struck out a career-high 189 over a career-high 213 innings pitched.
 
Derek Holland agrees to deal with White Sox
 
Texas declined an $11 million option for the 2017 season on Holland on Nov. 17, using the $1.5 million buyout to make him a free agent. It was reported during the Winter Meetings that the Pirates and White Sox stood as Holland's primary suitors.
Adding Holland helps fill out the White Sox starting rotation after the departure of Chris Sale via a trade with Boston. Carlos RodonMiguel Gonzalez and James Shields appear to be in place, while Jose Quintanacertainly sits at the No. 1 spot and would be the odds-on favorite as the Opening Day starter.
But in this highly publicized rebuild that netted the White Sox seven prospects through two trades last week, Quintana could add to that haul if the team's lofty demands are met in acquiring his services.
Carson Fulmer -- the team's top prospect per MLBPipeline.com before the additions of Yoan MoncadaLucas GiolitoMichael Kopech and Reynaldo Lopez via trade -- will be used as a starter during Spring Training. Fulmer still could be better served getting greater experience at the outset of 2017 as part of Triple-A Charlotte's rotation.
Scott Merkin/MLB.com
 

Comments are closed.