Grant Holman Reaches the Major Leagues
Grant Holman made his Major League debut in a challenging situation, entering the game after relievers Tyler Ferguson (who threw 44 pitches on Thursday) and Austin Adams (due to right elbow tightness) were unavailable. “I can’t describe it,” Holman said. “You put in so much effort to get here, and it feels amazing. I’m just thrilled and eager to go out there again.” Holman, a right-handed pitcher, was promoted following an impressive performance in Double-A Midland and Triple-A Las Vegas this season, where he achieved a 4-0 record with a 0.55 ERA and a 0.97 WHIP over 40 games.
“Holman’s had a commendable year so far,” Kotsay remarked prior to the game. “He truly deserved this promotion based on his performance. We’re looking forward to having him and assessing his abilities.” The Chula Vista, California, native accumulated 54 strikeouts and nine saves in 48 2/3 innings during his time in the Minors.
Initially a two-way player at Cal, Holman decided to drop first base to concentrate on pitching in his junior year. He was drafted by the A’s in the sixth round of the 2021 draft and began his professional career as a starter before shifting to the bullpen in 2023. He commenced the season as the closer in Midland, where he recorded 19 1/3 scoreless innings before being promoted to Las Vegas.
Welcome to The Show, Grant! 👏 pic.twitter.com/hEPbYLZrOd
— Oakland A’s (@Athletics) August 18, 2024
His call-up coincides with Players’ Weekend, culminating in the Yankees versus Tigers game on Sunday night in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, home of the Little League World Series and the site of one of Holman’s most unforgettable games. In 2013, Holman struck out 13 batters in seven innings during a 3-0 victory over Michigan, achieving the milestone of being the first pitcher to throw a no-hitter since the introduction of the 85-pitch limit in 2007. This game also marked the first extra-inning no-hitter in LLWS history since 1979.
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OAKLAND — Manager Mark Kotsay aimed to create a gentle introduction for Grant Holman when the A’s No. 21 prospect made his debut in the Major Leagues.
However, a shorthanded bullpen required him to insert Holman with two runners on base and two outs during the seventh inning while the A’s held a 2-0 lead in Saturday’s game.
Holman managed to get pinch-hitter Casey Schmitt to ground out to second base and then notched his first career strikeout against Tyler Fitzgerald in the eighth, marking a successful debut in the A’s 2-0 victory over the Giants at the Coliseum.
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“He entered the scene with remarkable calmness and composure, and the instruction was simply to throw strike one, which he accomplished,” Kotsay stated. “Considering it was his first Major League outing, I believed he performed exceptionally well.”
Earlier on Saturday, Holman was elevated to the Majors, precisely 11 years and one day after he pitched an extra-inning no-hitter in the Little League World Series.
“It was incredible, an absolute blast,” Holman reflected on his debut. “This is a moment I’ve anticipated throughout my life, and I would say it truly lived up to my expectations.”
Holman also permitted a double to Grant McCray. He was brought into the game during a crucial moment due to the unavailability of relievers Tyler Ferguson (who threw 44 pitches on Thursday) and Austin Adams (who was experiencing tightness in his right elbow).
“It’s hard to describe the feeling,” Holman admitted. “After all the effort you put in to reach this milestone, it’s simply amazing. I’m thrilled, and I can’t wait to step back out there and do it again.”
The right-handed pitcher received his promotion following an outstanding season, where he dominated batters in both Double-A Midland and Triple-A Las Vegas, boasting a record of 4-0, a 0.55 ERA, and a 0.97 WHIP across 40 games.
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“Kotsay mentioned before the game, ‘[Holman] has had an exceptional year so far. He has certainly earned this promotion through his performance. We are thrilled to bring him in and see what he can do.’
The pitcher from Chula Vista, California, accumulated 54 strikeouts and recorded nine saves over 48 2/3 innings this season while in the Minor Leagues.
Initially a two-way player at Cal, Holman decided to concentrate solely on pitching during his junior year, stepping away from first base. In 2021, he was selected by the A’s in the sixth round, starting his professional career as a starter, but he made the switch to the bullpen in 2023. He began this season as the closer in Midland, where he threw 19 1/3 scoreless innings before being promoted to Las Vegas.
Holman is now joining fellow 2021 draft pick Mason Miller in the Oakland bullpen.
This call-up takes place during Players’ Weekend, culminating in the Sunday night game between the Yankees and Tigers in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, the same location that hosts the Little League World Series and where Holman had one of his most unforgettable games.
In 2013, Holman struck out 13 players for California in a seven-inning 3-0 win over Michigan, making history by becoming the first pitcher to throw a no-hitter since the introduction of the 85-pitch limit in 2007. Additionally, it marked the first extra-inning no-hitter in Little League World Series history since 1979.
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Grant Holman Makes MLB Debut, Celebrates Journey from Little League Star to Major League Pitcher
The Rise of Grant Holman
Grant Holman’s journey to Major League Baseball (MLB) is a remarkable story of determination, talent, and resilience. Starting as a Little League star, Holman demonstrated an impressive skill set that caught the eyes of coaches and scouts alike. His journey exemplifies how dedication and hard work can lead to dreams becoming a reality.
Early Life and Little League Stardom
Born in 1999 in San Diego, California, Grant Holman began playing baseball at a young age. His passion for the game was evident as he transitioned from tee-ball to Little League, where he quickly made a name for himself.
- Team Spirit: Holman was a natural leader on the field, often guiding his teammates with his tactical understanding of the game.
- Pitching Prowess: As a pitcher, he showcased a powerful fastball and an impressive curveball, establishing himself as a formidable opponent.
- Major Achievements: Holman led his Little League team to multiple championships, setting records for strikeouts and wins.
High School Dominance
After excelling in Little League, Holman continued to hone his skills at Cathedral Catholic High School. Here, he became a household name in the local baseball community.
Notable Achievements
| Year | Award | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | All-League Pitcher | Recognized for his outstanding performance in the league. |
| 2017 | Team MVP | Outstanding contribution to the team’s success. |
| 2018 | All-American Selection | Selected as one of the top high school players in the nation. |
Holman’s high school career was marked by a series of accolades, showcasing his growth as a pitcher. His prowess on the mound attracted the attention of college scouts and MLB recruiters alike.
College Baseball and Further Development
After graduating from high school, Holman committed to playing for the University of California, Berkeley. Here, he continued to refine his skills and adapt to the collegiate level of play.
- Development of Skills: At Cal, Holman worked on his pitching mechanics, improving his velocity and control.
- Team Contributions: He played a pivotal role in leading his team to several victories during his college career.
- Draft Selection: Holman’s impressive collegiate statistics made him a promising candidate for the MLB Draft.
MLB Draft and Signing
In 2021, Grant Holman’s dreams became a reality when he was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the fifth round of the MLB Draft. The excitement of being chosen was a testament to his hard work and determination throughout the years.
Transitioning to Professional Baseball
Joining the Dodgers’ minor league system, Holman faced new challenges as he adjusted to the professional level. The minor leagues provided him with valuable experience and helped him further develop his skills.
- Training Regimen: Holman adhered to a rigorous training schedule, focusing on strength, conditioning, and skill enhancement.
- Mental Preparation: He worked with sports psychologists to fortify his mental game, ensuring he could handle the pressures of professional baseball.
- Coaching Influence: Experienced coaches played an integral role in Holman’s development, providing him with feedback and strategic insights.
MLB Debut: A Dream Come True
On June 15, 2023, Grant Holman made his highly-anticipated MLB debut against the San Francisco Giants. The moment was filled with emotion as he took the mound, representing not just himself but his family, friends, and all those who supported him throughout his journey.
Debut Highlights
- Holman struck out two batters in his first inning, showcasing his impressive skill set.
- His fastball reached speeds of up to 97 mph, leaving fans and commentators in awe.
- He demonstrated poise under pressure, helping the Dodgers secure a crucial win.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Throughout his journey, Holman learned valuable lessons that shaped his character and career:
- The Importance of Perseverance: Holman faced numerous setbacks, including injuries and tough competition, but his resilience kept him focused on his goals.
- Support System: Having a strong support network, including family, friends, and mentors, was crucial to his development both on and off the field.
- Continuous Improvement: Holman emphasizes the need for constant learning and adaptation in the ever-evolving landscape of baseball.
Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations
With his MLB debut behind him, Grant Holman is focused on establishing himself as a reliable pitcher in the league. His goals include:
- Consistent Performance: Aiming to maintain a low ERA and contribute significantly to the Dodgers’ success.
- All-Star Selection: Striving for recognition as one of the top pitchers in the league.
- Community Engagement: Giving back to the community, particularly to youth baseball programs, inspiring the next generation of players.
Conclusion
Grant Holman’s journey from Little League star to MLB pitcher serves as an inspiring narrative for aspiring athletes everywhere. His story highlights the importance of dedication, hard work, and resilience in achieving dreams. As he continues to make his mark in the MLB, Holman remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for young players looking to follow in his footsteps.
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