The Bullpen Black Hole: Yankees Seek Relief Pitching Solution
When it comes to nerve-wracking moments on the mound, few pitchers bring the suspense quite like Clay Holmes. The Yankees relied on Holmes as their primary closer for much of the 2024 season but eventually turned to Luke Weaver in high-stakes situations down the stretch and throughout the playoffs. Weaver’s consistent control and pinpoint accuracy proved essential, leading to Holmes taking a setup role.
Holmes’ Free Agency and Potential Cost
This offseason, Holmes enters free agency after finishing a one-year, $6 million deal in his final year of arbitration. The Yankees have the option to extend a qualifying offer, likely around $19 million, but that price is steep for a pitcher who may not retain the closer role. While Holmes could slide in as a closer for a team in need of high-leverage arms, he may better serve as a setup man on a stronger roster.
Despite a 2.25 ERA over 12 postseason innings, Holmes’ shaky command raises concerns. His inconsistency in pressure situations contributed to the Yankees leaning on Weaver in critical games, as Weaver demonstrated the control to hit corners reliably with his fastball.
Holmes’ 2024 Performance: Strengths and Weaknesses
Holmes ended the regular season with a career-high 30 saves over 63 innings and a respectable 3.14 ERA. However, he also led the league in blown saves in 2024. On the positive side, he’s shown durability, logging three consecutive 63-inning seasons, indicating he can withstand a heavy workload.
