The New York Mets have made several additions this offseason, most overshadowed by the signing of Juan Soto. One of their risky additions could open the door for an in-house option to succeed if things do not work out.
The Mets signed Clay Holmes to a three-year, $38 million deal this winter. However, they plan to use him as a starter. If the move does not work out, FanSided’s Noah Wright noted that José Buttó could take his spot in the rotation.
“Jose Butto would likely be one of the Mets’ go-to options if Holmes falters in the rotation. The right-hander finally got an extended look against Major League batters in 2024, working as a swingman-type pitcher,” wrote Wright. “He made seven starts in 30 games, tossing 74 total innings. Not only did he get to pitch a decent amount of frames, but he was also an effective pitcher.”
Butto had a 2.55 ERA in 30 games last season. He notched 79 strikeouts as well. In his seven starts, he pitched 38 innings and had a 3.08 ERA. While he was more successful out of the bullpen, moving Holmes back to the bullpen could allow Buttó to develop as a starter.
Holmes has not made a start since 2018 when he was with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He was a two-time All-Star with the New York Yankees, but both times he was selected as a reliver. The Mets are hoping Holmes finds success as a starter and serves as a compliment to Frankie Montas and Sean Manaea in 2025.
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