Holmes has gotten praise from his team for being one of the first players to report to camp, weeks before pitchers and catchers had to. As a result of his preparation, he got started the Mets' Grapefruit League opener, where he threw three perfect innings.

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (AP) — New York Mets right-hander Clay Holmes will take the mound on opening day for his first start since 2018. Holmes has worked 9 2/3 shutout innings over three Grapefruit League starts as he moves from the bullpen to the rotation. The Mets visit Houston for their opener on March 27.

Spring training always has its surprises, but few would have predicted Clay Holmes earning the honor of being the New