Clay Holmes, the Mets' ace right-hander, is making steady progress in his recovery from a fractured right fibula sustained in May. On Friday, Holmes engaged in his first simulated session with second baseman Marcus Semien, who is also on the mend from a left hip flexor strain. This marks a significant step forward in Holmes' rehabilitation journey, as he threw 40 pitches without any issues, indicating his return to full health is on the horizon.
Holmes' injury occurred during a game against the Yankees when he was struck by a comebacker at 111.1 mph. Since then, he has been working diligently to regain his form and contribute to the team's success. The interim manager, Andy Green, expressed satisfaction with Holmes' performance, noting that his pitches were moving effectively.
The upcoming All-Star break provides an opportunity for Holmes to face hitters in a more controlled environment, further building his confidence and pitch count. This development is particularly encouraging given Holmes' impressive pre-injury performance, where he boasted a 4-4 record and a 2.39 ERA in nine starts, ranking second on the team in bWAR.
Holmes' return to full health is a significant relief for the team, as he was their top pitcher before the injury. His ability to pitch without setbacks during the simulated session is a positive sign, and the team is eagerly anticipating his return to the mound.
Additionally, Semien's participation in the session is a positive indicator of his own recovery. After the session, Semien took live batting practice without any problems, suggesting he is also on track for a potential rehab assignment. This dual progress in Holmes' and Semien's recoveries is a promising development for the Mets, as it brings them closer to having their key players back on the field.
In conclusion, the Mets are witnessing a positive trend in their players' recoveries, with both Holmes and Semien making significant strides. This progress is a testament to the team's resilience and the hard work of their players and medical staff. As the season progresses, the Mets can look forward to welcoming these key contributors back to the lineup, strengthening their chances of success in the second half of the season.
