Holmes' cutter could unlock a new level of production, plus notes on Ryan Clifford and Vientos working on his defensive range.

The New York Yankees made one of the biggest changes in franchise history on Friday by nixing their no-beard rule, right after Clay Holmes left to their cross-town rival in free agency. The New York Mets hurler didn’t expect the Bronx Bombers to announce the change at this time,

And he has added a changeup to an expanding repertoire in the expanded role. All of the above went well Saturday, with Holmes throwing three perfect innings in a 6-2 win against the Astros, the Mets’ exhibition opener.

The New York Mets signed Clay Holmes with the aim of turning the All-Star reliever into a starter. And they aren’t wasting any time. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said Holmes will be on the mound when New York opens its Grapefruit League schedule against the Houston Astros at 12:10 p.

Google a photo of Clay Holmes as a Pirate, and you’ll see a pitcher with medium-length hair spilling out the back of his baseball cap, plus a bushy brown beard and mustache. Like so many players over the years,

Hot Stove discusses Juan Soto, Clay Holmes, Garrett Crochet and Alex Bregman all making their Spring Training debut with their new teams

Carlos Mendoza breaks down Juan Soto and Clay Holmes' strong outings in the Mets' 6-2 win over the Astros

Clay Holmes reflects on his first Spring Training outing as a member of the Mets

On Wednesday, the Mets' skipper revealed his starter for the Grapefruit League opener on Saturday against the Astros. Former Yankees closer Clay Holmes will take the ball for New York against Houston.

Considering his long-ago tortured starting history, aside from running on the field to open a game, this all felt, in Clay Holmes’ word, “normal.”

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