Holland to make his first start on Tuesday

HOUSTON -- The Rangers announced that Derek Holland will return from the disabled list and make his first start on Tuesday against the Royals. Nick Tepesch will be pushed back to Wednesday and Scott Baker will likely return to the bullpen after his start on Friday against the Astros.

"It has been a long process … longer than expected," Holland said. "If we were in the pennant race, I would have been back sooner, but I can't dictate that. My job now is to compete and show them what I can do. I know the season has been frustrating, it has been frustrating for me too. I just want to be a part of it."

Holland has been out all season after undergoing surgery to repair torn cartilage in his left knee on Jan. 10. He made six starts on medical rehabilitation assignment in the Minor Leagues and was 2-1 with a 4.43 ERA.

"We had to bring Derek off of rehab," manager Ron Washington said. "He is here. He has been deemed healthy. We'll pitch him and see where it goes. Derek can relax. He has been working hard trying to get back here and now he has a date."

Holland has a chance to get 5-6 starts before the season ends depending on how the Rangers set up their rotation through the two remaining off-days. His first start in Arlington will likely be next Sunday against the Mariners.

"I'm not going to lie to you, I couldn't get much sleep last night," Holland said. "Being with the team, it's like being called up again. I'll probably be excited but I know how to calm myself down."