Clay Holmes is preparing to return to major league action with the Cubs. Acquired during the trade deadline, Holmes has recovered sufficiently and will come off the 60-day injured list this weekend in Kansas City. Missing since mid-May due to a right fibula fracture, he expressed his desire to pitch for the Cubs immediately, a plan confirmed by manager Craig Counsell.
Holmes demonstrated his readiness by reaching 73 pitches in his third rehab outing. In Kansas City, if the Cubs follow the sequence of previous starts, Kevin Gausman will pitch on Friday, with Holmes scheduled for Saturday.
Holmes is eager to join the team, appreciating the robust defense of the Cubs. He emphasized how the team’s defensive prowess complements his strengths as a sinker ball pitcher, relying on contact quality.
“Just looking at this team, where they’re at, and, for me, this defense, is probably one of the best places I could have come,” Holmes said.
The Cubs face potential challenges in managing their rotation, yet Counsell does not anticipate frequent use of a six-man rotation. Holmes may present additional flexibility due to his previous experience as a high-leverage reliever, accumulating 74 saves and a 2.85 ERA with the Yankees from 2022 to 2024.
Holmes stands ready to adapt his role as needed during the postseason push.
“You want to do whatever you can to win a ball game,” Holmes stated, underlining his willingness to adjust between starting and relieving roles.
Counsell has decided to provide left fielder Tyrone Taylor with opportunities against left-handed pitchers. Ian Happ has struggled against southpaws, hitting .158 in 125 plate appearances this season. Taylor provides a viable option with a .301/.311/.589 line against left-handers.
“The energy in here is awesome already,” Taylor shared, expressing his enthusiasm and feeling of welcome among the team.
Counsell acknowledges Happ’s difficulties and sees Taylor as a strategic alternative.
The Cubs also made roster changes, sending Kevin Alcántara back to Triple-A Iowa. Despite hitting his first major league home run in a recent game, it was planned for Alcántara’s recall to be temporary following Taylor’s arrival.
“We sent Kevin down today. He understands. He knows that he did a good job, had a short opportunity but did a lot with it, and that’s satisfying,” Counsell stated, recognizing Alcántara’s performance.