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Al Holland, Phillies All-Star Closer, Dies at 73

His death closes the chapter on a decade-long MLB career whose peak was the 1983 National League pennant followed by a 1984 All-Star nod.

Overview

  • Holland died Saturday in Fort Mill, South Carolina, a fact his son confirmed to North Carolina A&T and which the university and the Phillies later announced publicly.
  • The Philadelphia Phillies posted a statement on July 6 mourning Holland and called him a dominant closer who helped pitch the club to the 1983 NL pennant.
  • Over 10 major-league seasons Holland compiled a 34-30 record with a 2.98 ERA and 78 saves in 384 games, numbers cited across team and baseball coverage.
  • His highlight years included a 25-save, 2.26 ERA season in 1983 that earned the Rolaids Relief Man honor and a career-best 29 saves that led to a 1984 All-Star selection.
  • Holland’s record also includes a documented connection to the 1980s Pittsburgh drug trials, which led to a suspended 60-day ban that was commuted to fines and community service, and he is survived by his wife Mary and three children.