While the Royals have struggled with an up-and-down season that now sees them 14 games under the .500 mark, one area they haven't had struggles is with their closers. While it's been a revolving door of sorts, with three players taking on the role, each have provided Kansas City with top-quality pitching to finish games.
With Joakim Sora out for the season following Tommy John surgery and Jonathan Broxton traded to the Cincinnati Reds, the closer spot for the Royals now belongs to Greg Holland and he's making the most of it. In 13 save opportunities, Holland has converted each, striking out 25 batters and allowing just three runs.
"It was unfortunate we lost Soria," Holland told Vinnie Duber of MLB.com. "Then Broxton stepped in and did a great job, was an All-Star caliber closer for us. Trades happen. You hate to lose a guy like that. He's a good guy and a good teammate and a good pitcher, too. I hate to see those guys go, but it's a new opportunity -- try to make the most of it."
Each of the former two closers were having All-Star level seasons and Holland has managed to allow for no drop-off in play as he's taken over the role for the team. "I just try to keep my composure and just go out there and win a ballgame," Holland told Duber. "When the third out's over, I come in the clubhouse, celebrate shortly and wake up the next day ready to do it again."
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