Clay Holmes Named Mets Opening Day Starter After Transition to Rotation

The former Yankees closer will make his first start since 2018, showcasing a successful spring training conversion to a starting role.

Clay Holmes, who signed a three-year, $38 million contract with the Mets in December, has been named the team's Opening Day starter for March 27 against the Astros.
This marks Holmes' first major league start since 2018, following a career as a dominant reliever, including 74 saves as the Yankees' closer over the past three seasons.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza praised Holmes' strong spring training performance, during which he pitched 9.2 scoreless innings, striking out 13 batters and allowing only two hits.
Holmes has embraced the challenge of transitioning from a reliever to a starter, focusing on deeper pitching strategies and extending his endurance on the mound.
The decision reflects the Mets' confidence in Holmes' potential as a starting pitcher, with analysts predicting he could emerge as a breakout player in the 2025 season.