Seasoned closer Clay Holmes surprise Opening Day starter for Mets

Longtime reliever Clay Holmes was named Opening Day starter for the New York Mets, who begin the season March 27 in Houston.

Holmes last started a game in 2018 and has four starts in his career, which includes All-Star closer credentials in 2022 and 2024.

Holmes prepared for a move to the rotation in a new throwing program with the goal of being "stretched out" enough to begin the season in the mix for a front-of-rotation role with New York.

Early spring results are shimmery for Holmes, who hasn't allowed a run in 9 2/3 innings with 13 strikeouts and two hits and four walks allowed.

"He earned it," Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said. "We like what we're seeing. I know it's a small sample size here but he's very encouraging. He really put himself in a very good position. Showed up here early in camp -- he was ahead of everyone.

"I know he's worked really hard. Proud of him."

Holmes signed a three-year, $38 million contract in the offseason after saving 74 games as the primary closer for the Yankees the past three seasons.

Left-hander Sean Manaea is still fighting an oblique strain. It's not yet clear who Mendoza will send behind Holmes, 31, against the Astros.

Mendoza said he's in a "one start a time" mentality with Kodai Senga, who was not an option for the opener. Senga is working back to full health after he was slowed by calf, shoulder and triceps injuries in 2024.

--Field Level Media