Two years ago at this time, Derek Holland was recovering from microfracture surgery on his knee after tripping over his dog and falling down his stairs. That put him out until September of that season, after which he returned and pitched lights out with the Rangers far out of contention.
Last season at this time, Holland was rollin' right along and was the de facto Opening Day starter after Yu Darvish's elbow injury. That Opening Day start lasted 11 pitches and one inning before he was shut down for four months with shoulder fatigue. His return last year wasn't as great as two years ago, as he was up and down and awful in the postseason.
Now, we all hold our breath as Holland takes the hill Thursday against the world champion Royals.
Holland is a pivotal figure for the Rangers' rotation this year, as he'll be the No. 2 starter behind Cole Hamels until Darvish returns some time in late May or early June, and Holland's staying healthy and effective will be paramount to the Rangers' success.
So be well, Derek. Be well.
