Clay Holmes Impresses in Transition to Starter, AJ Minter’s Progress Update
Port St. Lucie, Florida: On February 10, 2025, New York Mets pitcher Clay Holmes showcased his skills during a spring training workout at Port St. Lucie, Florida, marking the beginning of his journey from closer to starter in his inaugural season in Queens. Manager Carlos Mendoza commended Holmes for throwing three innings in live batting practice on the first official day of spring training, highlighting his dedication and preparation for this significant transition.
Transition to Starting Pitcher:
Holmes, a seasoned 31-year-old right-hander, previously excelled as an All-Star-caliber closer with the Yankees, accumulating 44 saves between 2022 and 2023. Despite a challenging season last year that led to his demotion from the closer’s role, Holmes remained determined to explore the starting pitcher role, which prompted his recent signing with the Mets on a lucrative three-year, $38 million contract. His decision to embrace this new challenge demonstrates both his versatility and commitment to evolving as a player.
During his tenure with the Yankees, Holmes never exceeded 70 innings in a single season and primarily relied on two pitches. However, his eagerness to venture into starting pitching compelled him to expand his repertoire, including the development of a changeup and a four-seam fastball to complement his slider and power sinker. As Holmes continues to acclimate to a starter’s workload, Mendoza emphasized the importance of trusting the process and evaluating Holmes’s performance through a series of tests and player feedback.
AJ Minter’s Progress Update:
In addition to Holmes’s promising transition, reliever AJ Minter, who recently signed a two-year, $22 million deal with the Mets, is steadily advancing in his bullpen progression under Mendoza’s guidance. Described as throwing at a “medium volume” during recent sessions, Minter’s focus is on increasing his intensity in preparation for live batting-practice sessions later this month. Mendoza expressed optimism regarding Minter’s physical condition and emphasized the organization’s goal of having him ready for Opening Day as the set-up man for closer Edwin Diaz.
Looking Ahead:
As the Mets’ spring training activities intensify, the spotlight remains on Holmes’s evolution as a starting pitcher and Minter’s preparation for a pivotal role in the team’s bullpen. With a blend of seasoned experience and fresh opportunities, both players exemplify the dedication and perseverance required to excel in professional baseball. The upcoming weeks will offer valuable insights into their progress and readiness for the challenges of the upcoming season, underscoring the dynamic nature of the sport and the resilience of its athletes.
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