The New York Yankees are set to let Clay Holmes walk in free agency this winter after shifting the closer role to right-hander Luke Weaver. While the decision makes sense, Holmes still remains a valuable arm and could find success with a new team.
However, Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly predicts that Holmes’ tenure with the Yankees is likely over, with the 31-year-old expected to sign a two-year, $24 million deal elsewhere. Holmes, an All-Star in 2024, posted a solid 2.77 ERA in the first half of the season but struggled after the All-Star break, finishing with a 3.75 ERA in the second half.
His control issues down the stretch have raised concerns, leading Kelly to believe the Yankees will move on from him. Despite these concerns, there should be plenty of suitors, and Holmes could still land a multi-year deal.
Why the Yankees Could Move on From Holmes
Holmes has shown impressive stuff throughout his career, earning an All-Star nod in 2024, but his overall performance this season raises questions.
The Yankees may attribute his struggles to bad luck, but with an average annual value (AAV) of $12 million, they might choose to explore other options.Holmes struck out just 68 batters in 63 innings this season, a concerning stat for a team like the Yankees that relies on strong pitching.
Phillip Martinez of SNY pointed out that Holmes’ lack of strikeouts could be problematic for a team with a shaky defense, especially in the infield. Holmes’ issues with blown saves were also a major factor, as he blew 13 saves in 2024, contributing to his demotion to a middle-relief role.
With a 3.14 ERA and 1.30 WHIP—his highest since 2021—Holmes’ downward trend may make it difficult for him to secure a closer role or the big contract he once seemed destined for. Given these factors, Martinez believes the Yankees should let Holmes go and explore other bullpen options, especially with Luke Weaver poised to step in as their closer moving forward.
Should the Yankees Let Holmes Walk?
The Yankees’ decision would have been much more complicated if not for Weaver’s stellar performance as the closer late in the season. Weaver posted a 2.89 ERA and struck out 103 batters in 84 innings, providing a strong finish to a bullpen that had struggled earlier in the year.
While resigning Holmes to a smaller deal (around $8 million AAV) could still offer value, it’s unlikely the Yankees will go that route. If Holmes does leave, he could thrive with a new team, but his time in New York seems to be coming to an end.
