There had been reports last week that the New York Mets and pitcher Clay Holmes were set to discuss an extension. 

That may not be the case. Anthony Dicomo from MLB.com reported that Holmes said that he has yet to have any "substantive talks" with the Mets regarding an extension. Holmes also noted that there is a chance he is traded ahead of the Aug. 3 trade deadline, but that any possible deal would be out of his control.

Holmes could be a highly sought-after option on the trade front. He has performed well after converting from the bullpen to the rotation, posting a 3.26 ERA and a 1.255 WHIP over his 218.1 innings since the start of the 2025 season, striking out 174 batters with 84 walks. Holmes has been even better this season but has pitched in only 52.2 innings due to a fractured fibula in May. He has begun working his way back from injury, making his first rehab start on Thursday.

Waiting game makes sense for Clay Holmes, New York Mets

Although Holmes may not be ready to return to the rotation by the trade deadline, he could be an intriguing option down the stretch. That ambiguity may be the reason why the two sides have yet to have an extensive discussion regarding an extension; it would not make sense to begin the process only to ship Holmes out days later.

At the same time, discussions regarding an extension could also set the framework for a possible contract in free agency. Any team acquiring Holmes would not be able to make a qualifying offer, allowing him to return to the open market. In that scenario, the Mets could get the best of both worlds — pieces to build for the future while bringing back a solid middle-of-the-rotation starter.