PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Clay Holmes — a former Yankees closer — was named the Opening Day starter for the Mets on Friday.
“He earned it,” Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said. “We like what we’re seeing. I know it’s a small sample size, but it’s very encouraging.”
Holmes signed a three-year, $38 million contract with the Mets in December intending to transition from reliever to a starter. Since then, he’s shown dedication to the move, being the first pitcher to arrive at camp weeks before the report date.
BUY METS TICKETS: STUBHUB, VIVID SEATS, TICKETMASTER
The 31-year-old right-hander has been impressive in three Grapefruit League starts. In 9 2/3 scoreless innings, he’s allowed just two hits and four walks, striking out 13 batters.
Before being hired as Mets manager, Mendoza coached Holmes with the Yankees between 2021 and 2023. He’s seen Holmes become one of the best closers in the game, and now, he’s hoping to see him thrive as a big-league starter.
“Proud of him because of the work that he’s put (in),” Mendoza said. “But then just everything that comes with it, whether it’s his openness to continue to try new things. His stuff is real and he’s worked really hard.”
Holmes saved a career-high 30 games with the Yankees last season. Between being traded to the Yankees by Pittsburgh in July of 2021, Holmes has posted a 2.69 ERA over 220 outings.
With the Mets, he’s hoping to have even more success.
Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription.
Manny Gómez may be reached at mgomez@njadvancemedia.com.