Right-handed pitcher Clay Holmes has signed a three-year contract worth $38 million with the New York Mets, with an option to opt-out after the second year, according to sources confirmed by ESPN’s Jeff Passan. The Mets plan to transition Holmes from a relief role to starting, a significant change as he hasn’t started a game in the league since his rookie season in 2018.
Holmes began his MLB career as a relatively average reliever with the Pittsburgh Pirates, but his career took a turn for the better after he was traded to the New York Yankees in 2021. At that time, he had a 4.93 ERA but quickly became a standout, achieving a 1.61 ERA in 25 games with the Yankees. The highlight of his Yankees tenure was in 2022 when he assumed the closer role, posted a 2.54 ERA with 20 saves, and earned an All-Star selection.
He was recognized as an All-Star again last season, though he faced challenges during the summer, notably blowing 13 saves, the most in the league. This struggle led to his demotion from the closer position in September. Despite finishing the regular season with a 3.14 ERA and 30 saves across 67 games, his postseason performance saw him allowing three runs in 13 appearances.
Holmes’s impressive skills, particularly his high-90s sinker and effective slider, alongside an exceptional ability to induce ground balls – which ranked second in the majors in 2024 – made him a sought-after option for various contenders during free agency.
On the other hand, the Yankees decided not to retain Holmes, opting instead to focus on discovering and developing cost-effective bullpen options while aiming to make major investments in other areas, particularly with star players like Juan Soto on their radar for the offseason.
This move signifies a new chapter for both Holmes and the Mets, as they work to establish a competitive rotation.
In summary, Holmes’s journey from a struggling reliever to an All-Star demonstrates the potential for transformation in a player’s career with the right support and environment. For the Mets, this signing could enhance their pitching depth significantly as they aim to contend in the coming seasons.