After a brief stint with the Chicago Cubs, Clay Holmes has declined his player option for the 2027 season, returning to free agency. Holmes was traded to the Cubs at the trade deadline from the New York Mets but managed only nine starts before an injury limited his play. Despite a fractured fibula, he finished the season with respectable numbers including a 3.29 ERA and 78 strikeouts over 101.1 innings.

Holmes' MLB journey includes time with both New York teams. He spent four seasons as a high-leverage reliever for the Yankees, accumulating 74 saves between 2022 and 2024. The Mets signed him in 2025 to a three-year, $38 million contract with plans to convert him into a starting pitcher—a transition that initially showed promise with a 3.53 ERA across 165.2 innings.

The Cubs retain an exclusive window to negotiate with Holmes but are expected to lose him in free agency amid interest from multiple clubs. Given the performance history and Holmes' previous impact in New York, the Mets and Yankees may both consider bringing him back as they address uncertain pitching rosters following disappointing recent seasons.

As the offseason unfolds, Holmes' availability adds intrigue to rebuilding efforts for the city's two franchises. The Mets missed the playoffs for a second straight year, while the Yankees faced another early playoff exit. Both organizations face critical roster decisions, and Holmes, with demonstrated resilience and experience, could be a valuable asset in stabilizing their pitching staffs.