Diamondbacks DFA Greg Holland and Red Sox Have to Sign Him Immediately

A former top reliever is set to become available.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have designated three-time All-Star closer Greg Holland for assignment, opening up the door for a reliever-hungry team like the Red Sox to improve their bullpen.

Diamondbacks To Designate Greg Holland https://t.co/PLGSlQCVAy pic.twitter.com/UgUEcVms89
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) August 7, 2019

The 2017 NL leader in saves has had a rather pedestrian year for the Diamondbacks. He's posted a 4.54 ERA in 40 appearances. Holland has struck out 41 batters in his 35.2 innings of work, but he's also issued an eye-popping 24 free passes.

Beggars can't be choosers, though, and Holland's up-and-down season would be an improvement for Boston's depleted and depressing relief corps.

The Red Sox's bullpen has combined for a an underwhelming 4.46 ERA. Outside of standout late-inning arm Brandon Workman, none of the team's relievers have been anywhere close to reliable. The recent news that Heath Hembree is expected to miss an extended period of time doesn't help either.

Heath Hembree had a PRP injection today. Sox don't believe it's a ligament issue and think he'll be back this season: https://t.co/ywYvm9F5Qx
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) August 6, 2019

Kicking the tires on Holland couldn't hurt. Boston still has the slimmest of chances at making a run for a Wild Card spot, and at the very least he could provide them with the established closer that they've been lacking all season.

If the Red Sox want to save their season, then they have to take a shot on Holland. Time is running out, and a reliever of his caliber may not become available again this season.