In a strategic move to bolster their pitching staff, the New York Mets have signed former Yankees reliever Clay Holmes to a three-year, $38 million contract, transitioning him into a starting pitcher role. Holmes, who last started in 2018 with the Pittsburgh Pirates, expressed a desire to return to starting after refining his pitch repertoire. Despite a decrease in sinker usage and relinquishing his closer role last season, Holmes is eager to prove himself as a starter. The Mets, seeking to strengthen their rotation, are optimistic about Holmes’s potential to deliver approximately 160 innings. He will be joining forces with former Yankee Carlos Mendoza and new acquisition Juan Soto. Holmes plans to focus on his sinker, his most effective pitch, to simplify his approach. The success of this transition is pivotal for the Mets’ rotation stability.

This signing reflects owner Steve Cohen’s commitment to leveraging financial resources to enhance the Mets’ roster. Cohen has previously demonstrated a willingness to invest significantly in talent, as seen in the acquisition of Juan Soto on a 15-year, $765 million deal. By converting Holmes into a starter, the Mets aim to address gaps in their rotation without engaging in high-profile free-agent bidding wars. This approach aligns with Cohen’s strategy of building a competitive team through both marquee signings and innovative player development.

The decision to pursue Holmes as a starter underscores the Mets’ proactive approach to roster construction. By identifying and investing in players with untapped potential, the organization aims to maximize performance while managing payroll flexibility. Holmes’s transition from reliever to starter will be closely monitored, as its success could significantly impact the Mets’ pitching depth and overall competitiveness in the upcoming season. This move exemplifies the Mets’ strategy under Cohen’s ownership: combining financial investment with innovative player utilization to build a formidable team.