Mets Sign Clay Holmes to $38M Deal, Plan to Convert Him to Starter

The former Yankees closer will join the Mets on a three-year contract with an opt-out after 2026, marking a significant role change for the All-Star pitcher.

Clay Holmes, a two-time All-Star closer with the Yankees, has signed a three-year, $38 million contract with the New York Mets, including an opt-out option after the 2026 season.
The Mets intend to transition Holmes into a starting pitcher role, a shift from his established career as a reliever since 2018.
Holmes had a challenging 2024 season, leading the league with 13 blown saves but still recording a career-high 30 saves and a 3.14 ERA in 67 appearances.
The Mets view Holmes as a cost-effective option to bolster their rotation, following the departures of several key starters in free agency, including Luis Severino and Sean Manaea.
If the starting experiment does not succeed, Holmes could return to a high-leverage bullpen role alongside closer Edwin Díaz.