Let’s go back to April 8. Clay Holmes entered the Opening Day Game for the New York Yankees, coming in to pitch the sixth inning. He allowed one run on three hits, recording two outs, before he was removed from the game in favor of Miguel Castro.
At the time, it appeared to be another shaky performance from a questionable bullpen arm. Holmes had been a revelation after being acquired from the Pirates last season, but nothing in his major league track record indicated that his success would continue.
Clay Holmes continues to dominate for New York Yankees
It turns out that outing was notable for an unexpected reason. Holmes has yet to allow a run since, his 29 consecutive scoreless appearances breaking the Yankees record held by Mariano Rivera. He still has a bit to go before setting the MLB record; Ryan Pressly had 40 consecutive scoreless outings between 2018 and 2019.
This streak underscores how impressive of a season Holmes is having. He has allowed just that one run on 18 hits and three walks in 32 innings, striking out 33 batters. That dominance has led to his ascension to the Yankees’ closer, a position that he does not appear to be in any danger of losing even when Aroldis Chapman returns.
Holmes’ dominance has also made a major difference in the Yankees’ bullpen this season. The relief corps was viewed as a potential Achilles heel when the season began, an expectation that was all the more prevalent as Chapman battled command issues. Those concerns are now long in the past.
At some point in time, this streak will end. Holmes will allow another run in one of his future outings. It may well make the difference in the game, especially as he has become the Yankees’ closer. But no matter what happens, his name is now in the record books.
Clay Holmes has surpassed New York Yankees legend Mariano Rivera. He has made 29 consecutive scoreless appearances and is not slowing down.