The Rockies made two bold moves Saturday. They officially signed former Kansas City Royals reliever Greg Holland to a one-year contract.
Then they designated right-handed starter Eddie Butler to clear space on the 40-man roster. Butter, a former first-round draft choice, has struggled to succeed at the major-league level.
Holland’s contract, which includes a vesting option for a second season, includes a $7 million guarantee for the 2017 season.
Holland, 31, a 10th-round selection in the 2007 draft, has a career 2.42 ERA in six seasons that were all spent with the Royals. From 2011 to 2014, he was one of the best relievers in baseball.