By Sunday 
Yankees Right-Hander Embracing New Role with Strong Spring Outing
For many pitchers, Spring Training is about fine-tuning mechanics rather than focusing on results. But for Clay Holmes, Sunday’s game held a deeper significance.
The standout number? 67 pitches.
“Probably the most pitches I’ve thrown in a while,” Holmes admitted after his start.
That total represents a major step in his transition from bullpen workhorse to starting pitcher. The last time Holmes surpassed that mark in a game was back in 2018 with the Pirates, when he threw 82 pitches in a start. As a reliever, he rarely exceeded 50 pitches in any outing.
Now, Holmes is gradually stretching his arm out, preparing to take on the workload of a starting pitcher.
Holmes Adjusting to Longer Outings
Holmes looked sharp in his 3 2/3 scoreless innings against the Nationals, striking out eight while allowing just one hit and three walks.
“I think these next few outings will be important,” Holmes said. “Stretching toward that final pitch count, and also just seeing how my stuff plays the second and third time through the lineup.”
Holmes threw 38 strikes out of his 67 pitches, but what stood out most was his ability to adjust on the fly.
His signature sinker wasn’t as sharp early on, forcing him to rely on a more diverse mix of pitches—including a changeup he’s been refining throughout the spring.
“It just kind of forced me to pitch a little bit, which I think is good,” Holmes said. “The changeup induced some ground balls and swings and misses, which was nice to see.”
Manager Mendoza: ‘He Had to Pitch Today’
Yankees manager Carlos Mendoza was pleased with Holmes’ adaptability.
“On a day that he would probably tell you the two-seam wasn’t at its best, that’s part of the transition,” Mendoza explained. “It’s just finding a way—whether it’s the slider, the changeup, the cutter, the four-seam—finding a way to get through innings. He did that today.”
Holmes has now thrown 9 2/3 scoreless innings across three spring starts, allowing just two hits and four walks while striking out 13.
Embracing the Starter’s Mindset
Holmes knows that becoming a reliable starter means more than just throwing sinkers. He must read swings, mix pitches, and adjust as the game progresses—skills he’s actively honing.
“With each outing, I’m getting a better feel for what it takes to be a starter,” he said. “It’s going to be a learning process, but I’m embracing it.”
With Frankie Montas and Sean Manaea set to begin the season on the injured list, Holmes’ ability to step into the rotation could be crucial for the Yankees’ early success.
His next start will provide an even bigger test—turning the lineup over twice and further stretching his pitch count. Each outing is another step toward proving he’s ready for this new role.
“I’m doing a little more than just throwing sinkers,” Holmes said with a grin. “And that’s a good thing.”