Clay Holmes is preparing to pitch on Sunday, but his team and potential trade destination remain uncertain as the Major League Baseball trade deadline looms. The New York Mets right-hander threw a bullpen session at Citi Field on Friday and appeared to be in good health. Interim manager Andy Green stated that Holmes and the team would confer to decide on the next steps, but that the pitcher's intention was to throw on Sunday.
The Mets are scheduled to host the Miami Marlins on Sunday, just one day before the trade deadline. On Friday, the Mets opted not to risk pitcher Freddy Peralta's health, scratching him from his scheduled start to ensure his availability for a potential trade partner. It is possible the Mets may employ a similar strategy with Holmes, who is reportedly being shopped but is considered less of a trade certainty than Peralta due to his health and the possibility of contract extension or a qualifying offer. However, it is likely Holmes will be pitching for a different team by the deadline.
"Obviously things change really quick at this time of the year with everything that’s spinning," Green said. "And that could possibly change, but [pitching Sunday] is his intent and that’s what he’s headed towards."
The 33-year-old pitcher has completed two rehab starts after a fractured fibula, increasing his pitch count to 59 over four innings. While a third rehab start could attract scouts from interested clubs, it does not appear to be the likely scenario. "He certainly wants to be back in the big leagues as quickly as possible, and I think everybody in the organization respects that and appreciates that," Green added.
In other team news, left-handed pitcher Cionel Pérez was placed on the 15-day injured list with a left forearm strain, despite pitching well in recent outings. The Mets recalled right-handers Jonathan Pintaro and Xzavion Curry, who recently provided sturdy relief work. On a personal note, Francisco Lindor hit his 150th home run as a Met, moving into sole possession of seventh place on the franchise's all-time list.
The team is also preparing to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their 1986 World Series championship team on Saturday. The event will feature moderated discussions with several members of that championship squad.