Former Yankee Clay Holmes seems to have done something more than just pitching for the Mets! It’s been for the first time since 2019; Holmes has become the starting pitcher for the Mets, who used to be a closer for the Yankees. As pointed out by MLB insider Trevor May, his effectiveness as a starter gives the Mets a lot of hope and also something that the opponents never expect—maybe any warning he is trying to send someone?

Well, Holmes’ debut with the New York Mets has been nothing short of extraordinary; the Houston Astros couldn’t even touch him for the three innings. Holmes managed to strike out three and required only 34 pitches during the Mets’ exhibition match, where they won 6-2 against the Astros. So, it’s a new team where Clay Holmes will begin as a starting pitcher, and that’s been a great opportunity for him. Holmes was acquired by the New York Mets for a three-year, $38 million contract after his stint with the Yankees as a reliever mostly.

Now, since a change is incorporated in his role, on February 24, MLB insider Trevor May said on the MLB Network Studio, “He does have a lot of experience starting, so it’s not like, you know, this is like, he hasn’t started since he was in high school. I tried to figure out that he was a starter at the big league for a whole.” So it’s definitely not something that Clay Holmes would be doing for the first time.

However, one thing that excited Trevor May the most was that Holmes was throwing a change—a kick change—creating a lot more depth, and that’s something new. And, it’s a fresh change to the fastballs that have been thrown earlier. Clay Holmes, going from a fastball-slider to a change, thus gives May and the fans, just like the Mets, a lot of hope, who are keen to see him change—count as a starter. His pitches and ability to influence the ground balls while throwing balls at high velocities, were visible on the radar gun, thus sending a strong message to every team that was looking to get him, maybe. So, what lies ahead for Holmes?

Looking ahead, what does Clay Holmes have to offer to the Mets?

Clay Holmes used to dominate the Houston Astros’ lineup once; however, that’s all past. While he played a major role, going 6-2 against the Mets that time, now he would like to replicate the same magic as he joins hands with the New York Mets. In his early debut, he, as a starter, made 34 pitches with a 44 CSW% along with displaying his new kick change ability. A new introduction to the game, maybe?

Well, this kick changeup could revolutionize MLB, especially against lefty hitters. It complements the sinker greatly and opens up more options in the arsenal. While his good starts can set a strong foundation for his future success, it all depends on his resilience and adaptation and how well he strives for excellence with his killer starts playing for the New York Mets. Isn’t it?

While all eyes are on Holmes as he continues to make his mark in MLB, it’s just a matter of time to see it. Do you think Clay Holmes can emerge as a great starter? Do let us know in the comment below.