The Yankees are already circling a Mets arm that could hit the market before the Aug. 3 trade deadline.
With the Mets likely headed toward seller mode, Clay Holmes has emerged as a name to watch, and MLB.com reported that the Yankees are among the clubs keeping close tabs on him. That list also includes the White Sox, Phillies, Rays, Rangers, Dodgers and D-backs, all of whom had scouts in attendance at Holmes’ latest outing, according to The Athletic.
Holmes’ contract situation only adds to the noise. He can opt out after this season and become a free agent, and he recently said he hadn’t engaged in substantive extension talks with the Mets. That makes him a logical trade candidate if New York decides to move him.
The right-hander is also still working back from a fractured right fibula. He hasn’t pitched in a big-league game since mid-May, but he took another step forward with his second rehab start for Single-A St. Lucie.
For the Yankees, the fit is a little unusual. Their rotation is already in good shape, so Holmes doesn’t exactly jump off the page as a must-have. If they’re shopping for help, shortstop and another impact bat would seem to make more sense.
Still, the Yankees have shown plenty of interest in chasing big names whenever the opportunity is there. And after years of shortcomings in the Brian Cashman-Aaron Boone era, it’s no surprise they’re keeping an eye on every possible star who might become available.
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