Through all the disappointments at the Yankees in 2021, a great story has germinated. At first glance, the acquisition of Clay Holmes at the end of July did not sound very exciting. However, she turned out to be a stroke of genius by Brian Cashman and his recruiters.
Prior to joining New York, Holmes experienced a very ordinary campaign in Pittsburgh. In 44 outings, his earned run average was 4.93. Still, someone in the Yankees organization managed to see potential in this mess.
Clay Holmes grew up in small-town Alabama with Yankees posters on his wall, and he calls it a “dream come true” to have excelled for them last year. He plans to do it again. Read: https://t.co/7hjPrt3WV0
— Brendan Kuty (@BrendanKutyNJ) February 12, 2022
Pitching coach Matt Blake took Holmes under his wing and completely transformed him. In 25 games in the Bronx, his BPM melted to 1.61. The bulk of the change was dropping the curveball from his arsenal to focus on his excellent drop ball.
The presence of his good friend and former teammate, Jameson Taillon, greatly helped him adapt to his new surroundings. A few times they rode the subway together to get to Yankee Stadium.
In an interview with journalist Brendan Kuty, the big right-hander, who had Yankees posters in his room growing up, returned to this memorable year.
“It’s a bit surreal. It’s something I can say I dreamed about it. I think it’s cliché, but it’s a dream come true. -Clay Holmes
When the 2022 season kicks off, Holmes will have a key role in Aaron Boone’s bullpen. It will be interesting to watch if he can repeat his exploits of last year. The Yankees will need it.
