The New York Mets secured their second victory of the spring Monday afternoon, edging out the reigning American League champions Toronto Blue Jays, 4–3.

While relief top prospect Ryan Lambert’s dominance was an exciting highlight, Clay Holmes got his first action of the spring before departing for the World Baseball Classic, which starts next week.

Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

The righty made his first start of the spring and threw 57 pitches over 3 2/3 innings. He punched out three Blue Jays, walked two, hit another, and gave up only one hit. Unfortunately for Holmes, the hit was a two-run home run by Kazuma Okamoto. 

Three of the four baserunners on the afternoon came in the first two innings. However, Holmes settled down in the third for a 1-2-3 inning culminating in a strikeout to end the frame. In the fourth, after walking the leadoff batter, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., on four straight pitches, Holmes was able to get through two more outs before his afternoon ended. 

Holmes showed why he’s generated some buzz in camp. The former reliever topped out at 95.8 mph and worked in his full arsenal, including his rediscovered curveball. He threw the new pitch four times: a ball, a foul ball, the homer, and one of his five whiffs. While it remains to be seen how effective the pitch will be, it’s something to note as Holmes tries to build on his successful transition to the rotation in 2025. 

After the game Holmes shined a light on the early spring freedom to adjust and experiment with his arsenal before games begin to matter. On his curveball, Holmes noted the homer given up to Okamoto: “It’s probably not something I’ll throw a ton to right-handed batters.”

Manager Carlos Mendoza highlighted Holmes’ cutter as a standout pitch from the outing before praising his sweeper. He was also optimistic about Holmes’ demeanor and pitch count while throwing into the fourth inning. 

Holmes also commented on where he could improve his performance from 2025: “I gotta find a way to stay in the zone and attack hitters, especially lefties.” With only 30 of the 57 pitches going for strikes, whether Holmes can be more efficient with his offerings will be something to watch for as the Mets march toward Opening Day. That spotlight will only intensify in 10 days, when Holmes represents Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, giving fans an early look at how his spring experimentation translates on a global stage.