"I just didn't make the pitch when I needed to" - Clay Holmes reflects on disappointing performance vs. Mariners as Yankees' winning streak ends

The New York Yankees had a not-so-pleasing start to the new series against the Mariners on Monday as they lost 5-4. The Yanks are currently at the top of the AL East standings, while the Mariners are the toppers in the AL West. The Yankees were on a six-games winning streak, but it seems the Mariners were successful in putting an end to the Yanks' winning run.

The game throughout was in the Yankees' grip or so it seemed. Till the eighth inning, the Bronx Bombers were leading by 4-1. However, Gleyber Torres' throwing error and Clay Holmes' blunder in the ninth inning turned the table completely. In that inning, the Mariners got four runs and won the game 5-4.

In the post-game interview, Holmes was asked about his thoughts on his performance tonight. Reflecting on it, the pitcher said that his stuff was okay; however, he just couldn't make the pitch when he wanted to and maybe that was the real reason behind his poor performance tonight.

"Yeah it's definitely I think it's just you know no one's situation knowing batter, knowing your stuff know where things are, all things you got to take into account."

"I make the best decision out there and said my stuff I thought was good enough tonight I just didn't make the pitch when I needed to. Some of the two strike pitches were competitive some worked and I think if a few more of those been competitive especially in the zone, tonight's game could be different."

The Yankees will be facing the Mariners again tomorrow for the second game of the series and will surely hope to turn things around then. As for Holmes, if given the chance, he would try to redeem himself again and help his team get back on track and win the remaining two games of this series.

Aaron Boone defends Clay Holmes for his poor performance

Yankees skipper Aaron Boone defended closer Clay Holmes in the post-game interview. When asked if Holmes was the only reason behind the team crumbling down in the 9th inning of the match against the Mariners, Boone backed the 31-year-old closer, saying that such ups and downs are a part of baseball.

"You know it's baseball, I thought he threw the ball well again just didn't really bounce our way that, he was on the attack. Couple swinging bumps on him. Bloop and then they put together some good at-bats there to finish off. Obviously a big rally but yeah, but it's one of those things that happens every now and then."

Holmes has been in good form since the start of this season. So far in 2024's regular season, Holmes has played 21 games. He has an ERA of 1.74, a WHIP of 1.21 and has 23 strikeouts under his belt. The loyal Yankee supporters would surely be hoping to see Holmes bounce back and help his team move back to winning ways as soon as possible.