After a scorching start to the season, Clay Holmes, the closer for the New York Yankees, has slowed down. But given that the eighth-year veteran was unexpectedly selected as a reserve, there might be some Yankee fans on the selection committee for the All-Star Game.
Through Bryan Hoch of MLB.com, Holmes shared his feelings of thankfulness.
Yes, Holmes said with much excitement. This location holds great significance for me. Everyone here, including the coaches, teammates, and organization. I consider this to be a very special location, and I take great pride in being able to speak for all of the guys here—my teammates and teammates as a whole. It’s a great honor, and I’m very appreciative of this chance. You know, anticipating the All-Star Game with excitement.
Despite having 19 saves, which puts him seventh in the league, Holmes has let up runs in five of his last seven games and has already tied a career-high five botched saves.
Holmes was saved by his hot start with the Yankees this year
Holmes would not have been in the All-Star game this year if not for his brilliant start to the season. Through May, the right-hander allowed just four earned runs in his first 30 games of the season, turning in 28 scoreless appearances. But the 6-foot-5, 245-pound pitcher let up a two-run home run to Boston Red Sox outfielder Masataka Yoshida on Friday, his third long ball of the season, and posted a 5.59 ERA in June.
Furthermore, this year, two of Holmes’s division opponents have outperformed him. Right-hander Craig Kimbrel of the Baltimore Orioles has tied for third place in the league with 23 saves out of 27 opportunities, a 2.10 ERA, a 0.90 WHIP, and four holds. Kenley Jansen of the Red Sox has been even more effective, turning in 18 of 19 save opportunities while sporting a 1.05 WHIP and a 2.01 ERA.
Holmes, however, has a 1.31 WHIP and a 3.00 ERA. It’s difficult to contest that he should have been chosen over Jansen and/or Kimbrel, and the MLB should provide an explanation. Holmes is still near the top of his position group, but recently he hasn’t been among the best.