PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Clay Holmes, a right-handed pitcher for the New York Mets, is set to make his return to the starting rotation on opening day. This opportunity comes after his last start in 2018. As spring training unfolds, Holmes has been outstanding in the Grapefruit League, boasting 9 2/3 innings without giving up a single run across three appearances. The Mets’ season opener is scheduled against Houston on March 27.
In these spring training matchups, Holmes has been impressive, striking out 13 batters, allowing only two hits, and issuing four walks. “He earned it,” remarked Mets manager Carlos Mendoza on Friday, indicating the team’s contentment with Holmes’ performance. “We like what we’re seeing. I know it’s a small sample size here, but it’s very encouraging.”
The Mets’ decision to shift Holmes from the bullpen to a starting role traces back to their strategy upon signing him to a three-year, $38 million deal in December. Although Holmes began his major league career with four starts for the Pittsburgh Pirates, he hasn’t exceeded 70 innings in any major league season.
Now approaching his 32nd birthday on March 27, Holmes completed last season with the New York Yankees, securing a 3-5 record, 30 saves, and a 3.14 ERA over 67 outings. His performance included 68 strikeouts and 22 walks across 63 innings.
Through his career to date, Holmes has compiled a 24-22 win-loss record with a 3.71 ERA over 311 appearances, accumulating 74 saves for the Yankees the past three seasons and earning a spot on the AL All-Star team in 2022 and 2024.
