Clay Holmes is eager to shift from the bullpen to starting pitcher for the Mets, aiming for a successful new chapter in his career.
New York: Clay Holmes is feeling pretty pumped about his new role with the Mets. After spending six years in the bullpen, he’s ready to step up as a starting pitcher.
He’s not just excited for himself; he hopes his move might catch the eye of Juan Soto, his former teammate. Holmes signed a three-year deal worth $38 million, and he’s optimistic Soto might follow him to the Mets.
Holmes, a two-time All-Star closer for the Yankees, has always had starting in the back of his mind. He even thought about it back in 2020 when he considered pitching overseas.
Last season, he relied on a killer sinker, averaging 96.6 mph, which he threw over half the time. His impressive groundball rate shows he can handle hitters from both sides.
He’s been working on a changeup and a four-seam fastball during his bullpen sessions, which he thinks will help him be more unpredictable on the mound.
Holmes has made 114 starts in the minors, but only four in the majors. Now that he’s a free agent, he’s ready to give starting another shot, especially with the Mets’ solid pitching staff.
He’s excited about the Mets’ culture and the support from their coaching staff, which includes familiar faces from his Yankees days. He believes this environment will help him transition smoothly.
As he gears up for the season, Holmes aims to throw 160 innings and is glad the Mets aren’t limiting his workload. He’s joining a rotation that includes some strong pitchers, and he’s ready to make adjustments to his conditioning.
Working out with All-Star Garrett Crochet, who recently switched from reliever to starter, gives him hope. Holmes is eager to learn from others who have made similar transitions.
“It’s not super common, but it’s not uncharted waters either,” he said. He’s ready to embrace this new challenge and see where it takes him.