Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Former Phillies Closer Al Holland Dies at 73

7/7/2026

48 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Philadelphia Phillies announced on July 6, 2026 that former pitcher Al Holland died at age 73.
He pitched for Philadelphia 1983-85, recording a 2.26 ERA, 100 strikeouts, 25 saves and an All-Star selection in 1984.
In the 1983 postseason he saved Game 1 of both the NLCS and World Series and threw 6.2 scoreless innings with eight strikeouts.
His career totals included a 2.98 ERA, 513 strikeouts and a 1.207 WHIP.

History

Historical Context

Peter Seitz’s December 23 1975 arbitration ruling, backed by MLBPA leader Marvin Miller, ended the reserve clause by granting free agency after a single-year renewal, later limited to players with six years of service. That shift let pitchers like Al Holland—who earned an All-Star nod in 1984 and 25 saves for the Phillies—build lucrative, mobile careers, a legacy evident in his 2026 remembrance.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Philadelphia Phillies announced on July 6, 2026 that former pitcher Al Holland died at age 73.
He pitched for Philadelphia 1983-85, recording a 2.26 ERA, 100 strikeouts, 25 saves and an All-Star selection in 1984.
In the 1983 postseason he saved Game 1 of both the NLCS and World Series and threw 6.2 scoreless innings with eight strikeouts.
His career totals included a 2.98 ERA, 513 strikeouts and a 1.207 WHIP.

1 / 2