Title: Evaluating the Yankees’ Options for Closer Clay Holmes
Introduction:
After the New York Yankees’ loss to the Detroit Tigers, questions arose about Clay Holmes’ performance as the team’s closer. While manager Aaron Boone expressed support for Holmes, he also hinted at the possibility of considering other options moving forward. This article explores the Yankees’ potential alternatives and analyzes the risks and benefits associated with making a change.
The Yankees’ Limited Internal Options:
The Yankees’ internal options for a closer replacement are not promising. The relievers acquired by general manager Brian Cashman at the trade deadline, such as Mark Leiter Jr. and Enyel De Los Santos, have struggled or been designated for assignment. This lack of reliable alternatives may necessitate a temporary reset, similar to what the New York Mets did with Edwin Diaz earlier in the season.
Experience vs. Performance:
While Holmes has had a down season, he still has 26 saves, tied for the sixth-most in MLB in 2024. In contrast, the other relievers on the Yankees’ active roster have only combined for 26 saves throughout their entire careers. This highlights the experience gap the Yankees would face if they were to experiment with another pitcher in the closer role. However, it also raises questions about Holmes’ recent performance and the need for a potential change.
Holmes’ Performance and Potential Concerns:
Holmes’ numbers present a compelling case for considering a change in the closer role. Five of his blown saves have occurred against AL East opponents, and two have happened against teams the Yankees could potentially face in the playoffs. Opponents have hit .348 against his slider this season, up from .260 last year, indicating a decline in effectiveness. Sunday’s game against the Tigers also showcased Holmes struggling to close out the ninth inning efficiently.
The Risk of Inexperience:
If the Yankees were to replace Holmes as closer, they would be taking an experience risk. In the final month-plus of the regular season and the playoffs, relying on a less-experienced pitcher could have consequences. However, the potential benefits of improving performance and addressing recent struggles may outweigh this risk.
Conclusion:
While Aaron Boone has expressed support for Clay Holmes as the Yankees’ closer, the team’s internal options are limited and present their own challenges. Holmes’ recent performance and the potential benefits of addressing his struggles may warrant considering a change. However, any decision to replace Holmes would come with an experience risk. Ultimately, the Yankees must carefully evaluate the trade-off between experience and performance to make the best decision for their bullpen in the crucial final stretch of the season and the playoffs.
