Royals re-sign reliever Greg Holland to one-year contract

Kansas City Royals veteran reliever Greg Holland isn't going anywhere. 

The Royals confirmed on Monday that they re-signed the 35-year-old right-hander. Jeffrey Flanagan of the club's official website reported that Holland's deal is worth $2.75 million and includes $1.5 million in potential performance bonuses. 

“He anchored our bullpen, and that allowed others to settle into their roles,” general manager Dayton Moore said while speaking with reporters on a Zoom call. “[Manager] Mike [Matheny] feels extremely comfortable running Holly out there in any situation. It was important for us to get Holly back for next season. There’s a trust level there with him. This is where he wanted to be.

“Greg is one of the very best competitors that we’ve had in Kansas City. He’s fearless in any situation. He is very resilient. He understands that if he had success the day before, it doesn’t matter the next day. There are very few situations he hasn’t experienced in this game, if any.”

During the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. Holland tallied six saves in six opportunities with a 3-0 record, 1.91 ERA and 0.95 WHIP across 28⅓ innings. According to ESPN stats, he's fifth among active pitchers with 212 career saves. 

The Royals made headlines last week when they signed former Cleveland Indians first baseman and designated hitter Carlos Santana, a one-time All-Star, to a two-year contract.