Scouting Playoff Pitchers: Derek Holland

Starting pitchers are perhaps the biggest factor in whether a team succeeds in the postseason. For that reason, some of the most detailed scouting reports are compiled on these opposing starters. Here’s a look at what playoff opponents will see from Rangers' starter, Derek Holland.

Arsenal

Fastball: 93-96 MPH
Slider: 82-85 MPH
Curveball: 75-78 MPH
Changeup: 84-86 MPH


The Skinny: On a staff full of pitchers with outstanding raw stuff, you could make the case that Holland has better stuff than any of them. He’s proven he can miss bats consistently with his mid 90s fastball. Couple that with a plus breaking ball and quality changeup and Holland has become a handful for hitters from both sides of the dish.

Fastball location is a big key for him. He still tends to make some mistakes up and out over the plate, but his plus velocity allows him to get away with some of them.

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