Mets Manager Discusses Holmes’ Progress and Benge’s Promising Spring Performance

Before the Mets faced off against the Houston Astros in West Palm Beach, manager Carlos Mendoza addressed the media, sharing insights on key players as spring training continues to unfold. Among the topics discussed was Clay Holmes, whom the Mets signed last offseason with the intention of transitioning him from a career reliever to a starting pitcher. This move raised eyebrows among skeptics, particularly regarding his ability to adapt and manage his innings.

Holmes navigated his first full season as a starter with a commendable record of 12-8 and a 3.53 ERA over 33 appearances, including 31 starts, logging a career-high 165.2 innings. Despite facing challenges during the second half of the season, most notably a 4.91 ERA in July, he rebounded strongly with a 3.09 ERA in September and October. Mendoza believes that with this experience behind him, Holmes is now better equipped for his second season in the Mets’ rotation.

“Second year after a full year as a starter, he’s got a better understanding of what the routine looks like between outings, how he’s going to pace himself in outings, pitch usage, how he’s going to attack a lineup not only once or twice but three times through the order,” Mendoza explained. “This is a guy that wants to use all the resources, wants to use all the information and he continues to tinker with pitches.” Holmes has showcased his prowess during camp, posting a 2.84 ERA and 0.71 WHIP across 12.2 innings, along with a stellar performance in the World Baseball Classic, where he struck out six in three scoreless innings against Great Britain.

The Mets’ pitching depth has also been bolstered by the addition of Freddy Peralta and the emergence of Nolan McLean, which has alleviated some concerns surrounding the staff from last season. As Holmes continues to refine his skills, the outlook for New York’s rotation appears promising.

On the offensive side, Carson Benge, a 23-year-old outfielder, has made a strong case for a spot in the Opening Day lineup. With a batting average of .370, including a triple, five RBIs, and four runs scored in nine games, Benge has impressed Mendoza with his consistent performance. “Hopefully that’s the case that we get to those last few days and we have to make some tough decisions because we got a lot of guys playing well and are healthy,” Mendoza noted. Benge’s adaptability has also been on display as he shifts from right field to center field to gain valuable experience.

Mendoza expressed confidence in Benge’s ability to handle the transition, emphasizing his calm demeanor. “I don’t think the moment is going to be [too] big for him. He’s a pretty neutral guy to be honest with you. He goes about his business, he plays baseball, goes home and comes back the next day and does it again.”

In injury news, shortstop Francisco Lindor is currently considered “day-to-day” after undergoing hamate bone surgery. Mendoza reassured that Lindor remains on track for Opening Day, having looked promising in his recent at-bats during a minor league game.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.