Derek Holland was all set to have a big 2012. He had a good 2011, including a great second half, and had the best, biggest start of his career in his final start of the season when he went eight-plus innings in Game 4 of the World Series.
The outlook was bright for Holland heading into 2012, in other words. But he didn't come through as he went 12-7 with a 4.67 ERA and missed a month with shoulder fatigue after an odd stomach virus caused him to lose about 20 pounds.
But despite his own struggles last season, Holland was watching his teammate have a breakout year and turn into a possible ace for the Rangers.
Matt Harrison went 18-11 with a 3.29 ERA while earning an all-star berth, and now Holland wants to follow his teammate's lead.
“Harry did a great job for us. I don’t think he got enough credit," Holland told ESPN Dallas. "He was the most consistent pitcher and accomplished a lot for us. I’m using a lot of what he did as motivation."
