A new report claims that the New York Mets decision to sign former New York Yankees closer Clay Holmes and make him a starter annoyed some MLB executives. But it is also part of why team president David Stearns is so highly respected and feared around the game.
The Mets had a very active offseason. Without a doubt, their biggest move of the fall and winter was winning the massive sweepstakes for All-Star outfielder Juan Soto. However, there were quite a few other moves the club made to improve the roster. Especially when it came to the starting rotation.
They entered the offseason with three openings in the starting staff. They addressed them by bringing back fan-favorite Sean Manaea. And signing veteran innings eater Frankie Montas. However, the decision that surprised some was signing two-time Yankees All-Star Clay Holmes, but to not be a closer. Instead, they would transition him to the starting staff.
It was a move that some scoffed at. Especially after his terrible finish to the season led to him losing his job. However, there has been a growing trend in the league of switching relievers to starters. And it seems that Mets President David Stearns paying well to do the same with Holmes was met with frustration and praise from rivals.
New York Mets President David Stearns considered ‘dangerous’ with Steve Cohen’s money
“In December, Stearns frustrated at least one other team that had an interest in transitioning Clay Holmes to a starting pitcher,” The Athletic’s Will Sammon reported this week. “The Mets outbid the other club for the veteran, paying $38 million over three years.”
That ability to identify unique budget-friendly talent that could be impactful is what made Stearns a star for the Milwaukee Brewers. And a top target for the New York Mets when they were in search of a new top exec to run the team a few years ago. While the Holmes move frustrated some, it also earned praise from others.
“It’s a viable margin play — what Stearns does well,” another rival executive told The Athletic.
Furthermore, many around MLB not only respect Stearn’s skills, but they are also beginning to fear him more than ever. Because not only is he a talented executive, but he also has the billion-dollar resources of owner Steve Cohen. “Stearns with money is dangerous,” an MLB exec told the outlet.
Holmes is set to be the Mets starting pitcher on Opening Day next week.
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