The sports community is mourning the loss of Al Holland, a former Major League Baseball reliever and standout at North Carolina A&T State University, who passed away on July 4, 2026, in Fort Mill at the age of 73.
Born Alfred Willis Holland in Roanoke, Virginia, Holland rose to prominence as a multi-sport athlete before cementing his legacy on the baseball field. During his time at North Carolina A&T, he became one of the most dominant collegiate pitchers in the nation, recording four no-hitters and consistently posting remarkable statistics, including a career ERA that never exceeded 1.03 in a season. His exceptional performance earned him All-American honors and later induction into multiple halls of fame.
Holland’s professional career began when he signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1975. He made his Major League debut in 1977 and went on to play 10 seasons in the MLB, including notable stints with the Pirates, San Francisco Giants, and Philadelphia Phillies.
His most memorable season came in 1983 with the Phillies, where he recorded 25 saves and played a crucial role in leading the team to the National League pennant. That year, Holland earned the N.L. Rolaids Relief Man of the Year Award and received votes for both the Cy Young and MVP awards. He also made an All-Star appearance in 1984.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Holland was deeply respected for his leadership, competitive spirit, and dedication to excellence. At North Carolina A&T, his No. 17 jersey was retired in 2020, a testament to his lasting impact on the program. He was also inducted into the College Baseball Hall of Fame, the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Hall of Fame, and the university’s own Sports Hall of Fame.
Holland is survived by his wife, Mary Reid, whom he married in 1975, along with their children and extended family.
As tributes continue to pour in, he is remembered not only as a talented athlete but also as a symbol of determination and pride whose legacy will endure for generations.
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