Only one New York Yankees player leads all MLB players in a major statistical category this season: closer Clay Holmes, who, along with the San Diego Padres’ Robert Suarez, shares the lead for saves with nine each.
Holmes has successfully saved all but one of his opportunities this season, not conceding any earned runs and accumulating 12 strikeouts in 12 innings so far. In his seventh season in the big leagues, he’s performing better than ever. Tim Britton of The Athletic projected that if the Yankees were to offer an extension, it could be a four-year, $52 million deal.
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However, MLB columnist Bob Klapsich reported for the Newark Star-Ledger that there’s no chance of an extension happening before the end of the season, citing the Yankees’ club policy of rarely offering early extensions to players.
If Holmes decides to test free agency after his career-best season, he’ll likely attract numerous suitors, potentially leading to his departure from the Yankees.
Sara Molnick wrote for Pinstripes Nation, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding Holmes’ future with the team despite his undeniable contributions.
Klapsich pointed out that Yankees’ principal owner Hal Steinbrenner’s stance on contract extensions, quoting him as saying, “I don’t believe in contract extensions, and that’s throughout the organization, no matter who it is.”
While the Yankees did extend closer Aroldis Chapman in 2020, Klapsich noted that they might have regretted it as his performance declined.
Klapsich suggested that the Yankees might consider a short-term deal for Holmes, but even that seems doubtful due to his age.
Holmes, however, remains focused on performing at his best with the Yankees. In a recent statement to The Athletic’s Brendan Kuty, he emphasized his commitment to helping the team win games and expressed his enjoyment of his current situation with the organization.
