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A few thoughts about the Cubs and Clay Holmes

The Chicago Cubs’ acquisition of Clay Holmes from the New York Mets in exchange for Jefferson Rojas initially seemed like a strategic move to bolster their rotation with a ground-ball specialist. However, Holmes’ performance fell short of expectations, posting a 4.25 ERA and a 1.295 WHIP in nine starts for the Cubs.

His walk rate surged to 11.8%, nearly 3.4 percentage points higher than his 8.4% mark with the Mets before an injury sidelined him for nearly three months. Manager Craig Counsell emphasized controlling free passes, noting that left-handed hitters were particularly troublesome for Holmes, despite his ability to escape jams with his sinker.

With a $12 million player option for 2027 following a $13 million salary in 2026, Holmes’ future hinges on whether he can replicate his pre-injury form or if the Cubs will opt for a different solution.

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