As a closer, he rarely came back out after innings in which he threw a lot of pitches. As a starter, that will be required.

Clay Holmes' spring training debut with the New York Mets in front of the second-largest crowd in a spring home opener at Clover Park could not have gone better

The Mets right-hander, who is lengthening as a starter after spending most of his career in the bullpen, is scheduled for three ups (meaning at least pitching into the third inning) on Saturday against the Astros at Clover Park, according to manager Carlos Mendoza. Holmes said he would likely be capped around 50 pitches.

Mets right-hander Clay Holmes admitted it felt a little different showing up to the ballpark for Saturday's spring training opener.

Clay Holmes continues to suggest that he can cut it as a starter in the majors, after all, with another strong outing during the New York Mets’ 5-0 spring training win over the Houston Astros on Thursday afternoon.

Clay Holmes has looked great in his first two Spring Training outings. Nevertheless, the New York Mets should still look for another arm with the injuries to Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas.