Yankees Get "Closer" Back

The New York Yankees have their "closer" back. The only question, as Clay Holmes is activated for tonight's game—is he "All-Star closer" Clay Holmes, or late July/early August Clay Holmes? When he went on the IL back on Aug. 17th, he'd lost the closer's role, with a 10.50 ERA in his previous seven outings.

News: Clay Holmes officially activated to #Yankees roster before tonight’s series opener in Anaheim. @MLBNetwork @MLB

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) August 29, 2022

Now the Yankees are hoping that a little rest, and a "mechanical adjustment" will bring him back to his nearly unhittable, All-Star form of the first three months of the season.

According to Yankees beat reporter Sweeny Murti, the change in mechanics sees his set position moving "a few inches from the third base side of the rubber towards the middle. That little change might help keep his power sinker from boring too far inside and hitting the righty batters."

On July 9th, Holmes had an 0.46 ERA with an 0.74 WHIP, and was 16 for 18 in save opportunities. Then the bottom fell out. His line on the season now reads 2.49 ERA and 1.02 WHIP—certainly very respectable, but those last 10 or so outings had been troublesome, to say the least, with one save in five chances. 

The Yankees still have no less than 10 pitchers on the IL, but if Holmes can regain his form, they'll be thrilled.

Photos: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports, Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports