Clay Holmes Free Agency Rumors: Mets among teams eying bold plans for Yankees star as sweepstakes continue

The MLB offseason is getting more interesting, and a player who is getting attention in the free-agent market is Clay Holmes, a former closing pitcher for the New York Yankees.

He is being linked to some potential suitors such as the New York Mets, who may decide to employ him in the starting pitcher role, according to the New York Post on Monday.

In 2024, Holmes delivered mixed results as he had an ERA of 3.14 with only 30 saves in 67 games. Although he demonstrated his capability of striking out almost 10 batters every nine innings, he could not maintain consistency, as evidenced by his dismissal from the position of closing pitcher at the end of the regular season.

But despite this setback, he performed well again in October. He managed to allow only three runs in 12 innings throughout the postseason.

The reason behind the Mets' interest in Holmes reportedly goes beyond him just being another arm they could add to their starting rotation but also someone who could start games effectively.

The Mets have entered a very critical period this offseason where they might see three key starters, Sean Manaea, Jose Quintana and Luis Severino, leave through free agency. They signed Frankie Montas to improve their starting pitchers but still need more experienced pitchers.

Clay Holmes' transition from closer to starter, a risky but rewarding move for MLB teams

Clay Holmes - Image via Getty

Clay Holmes has several plus points that would make any team willing to include him among its starting five, such as three types of fastballs and breaking balls each. Lately, many successful closers are turning toward becoming starters with a few examples on record like Seth Lugo and Michael King.

Moving Holmes back to the starting role has its advantages, although it is very risky. Holmes does not have much experience as a starter. He has never pitched more than 70 innings in any season after being a full-time reliever.

According to MLB Trade Rumors, a three-year, $30 million deal may be what Holmes gets. This is an estimate based on how well he has done up to now and what could still happen during this important time in his career development.

Nonetheless, with only a few weeks left before winter meetings, teams finalizing strategies for now and for the months to come remain the point of focus.