Former All-Star closer and 1983 champion passes away at 73

Former Phillies Closer Al Holland Passes Away at 73

Al Holland, the former All-Star closer for the Phillies, has sadly passed away at the age of 73.

The Phillies expressed their sorrow through a social media post, stating: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of Al Holland, who spent three seasons with the club from 1983 to 1985. The club and our fans are forever grateful for his contributions and the legacy he left in Philadelphia. Our deepest sympathies go out to Al’s family, friends, and former teammates during this difficult time.”

While the cause of death remains unannounced, it was reported that he died in South Carolina surrounded by loved ones on July 4th.

Holland was a key player for the Phillies during his time with the team, contributing to their pennant-winning roster in 1983.

That year, he shone brightly, making 25 saves. He played crucial roles in the postseason, saving Games 1 and 4 of the NLCS against the Dodgers, leading the Phillies to a series victory. He also recorded a save in Game 1 of the World Series against the Orioles, although the team ultimately lost in five games.

His performances during this period earned him recognition as the National League Reliefman of the Year, as well as placing him in the top ten for both the Cy Young Award and National League MVP voting.

Throughout his career, Holland also played for teams like the Pirates, Giants, Angels, and Yankees, and he finished seventh in the Rookie of the Year voting while with San Francisco in 1980. By the end of his career in 1987, he pitched in 384 games, tallying a record of 34 wins and 30 losses, with a 2.98 ERA and 78 saves.

In 2015, Holland was inducted into the National College Baseball Hall of Fame. During his freshman season at North Carolina A&T, he led the nation with 143 strikeouts and boasted a remarkable 0.54 ERA. Notably, he also threw a no-hitter in each of his four seasons, including an astounding 25-strikeout game against North Carolina Central.

He is remembered not just for his achievements on the field but also for his personality. His son, Al Holland Jr., confirmed the news of his passing.

“Al Holland was a major league star both on and off the field,” remarked James R. Martin II, Chancellor of the North Carolina Department of Science and Technology. “He embodied the Aggie spirit of toughness and excellence. He was truly one of a kind, and he will be greatly missed at North Carolina A&T.”