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2mo ago

Clay Holmes Named Mets' Opening Day Starter in Unconventional Move

The former Yankees closer transitions to a starting role as the Mets face rotation challenges heading into the 2025 season.

Feb 27, 2025; Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Clay Holmes (35) delivers a pitch against the Houston Astros during the first inning at Clover Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images/File Photo
JUPITER, FLORIDA - MARCH 10: Sandy Alcantara #22 of the Miami Marlins in the spring training game against the Washington Nationals at Roger Dean Stadium on March 10, 2025 in Jupiter, Florida.
Clay Holmes #35 of the New York Mets throws a pitch against the Houston Astros during the third inning of a spring training game at Clover Park on February 27, 2025 in Port St. Lucie, Florida.
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Overview

  • Clay Holmes, a career reliever with only four prior starts, will take the mound for the Mets' Opening Day on March 27 against the Astros.
  • Holmes signed a three-year, $38 million deal in the offseason and has impressed during spring training with 9 2/3 scoreless innings and 13 strikeouts.
  • Manager Carlos Mendoza cited Holmes' strong spring performance and readiness as key factors in the decision, despite his lack of starting experience since 2018.
  • The Mets' rotation has been impacted by injuries, with Sean Manaea sidelined by an oblique strain and Kodai Senga still building up after a 2024 season plagued by injuries.
  • Holmes has worked to expand his pitch repertoire, adding a changeup and cutter to his sinker, slider, and sweeper, as he transitions to the starting role.