Longtime Reliever Clay Holmes was named opening day starts for the New York Mets, which starts the season March 27 in Houston.
Holmes last started a game in 2018 and has four starts in his career, which includes All-Star closer references in 2022 and 2024.
Holmes was preparing for a transition to the rotation in a new throwing program with the goal of being “stretched” enough to start the season in the mix for a front-of-rotation role with New York.
Early spring results are shimmering for Holmes, who has not allowed a run in 9 2/3 turns with 13 strikes and two hits and four allowed walks.
“He earned it,” said Mets Manager Carlos Mendoza. “We like what we see. I know it is a small sample size here but he is very encouraging. He really sat down in a very good position. Shown here early in the camp – he was before everyone.
“I know he’s worked really hard. Proud of him.”
Holmes signed a three -year contract of $ 38 million during the season after saving 74 matches as the primary closer to Yankees in the last three seasons.
The left hand Sean Manaea is still struggling with an oblique trunk. It is not yet clear who Mendoza will send behind Holmes, 31, against Astros.
Mendoza said he is in a “a start for a time” mentality with Kodai Senga, which was not an option for the opener. Senga works back to full health after being slowed down by calf, shoulder and triceps injuries in 2024.
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