Clay Holmes has clear objectives as Team USA competes in the World Baseball Classic, declaring the squad’s only goal is to win. Speaking on The Post’s The Show podcast with Joel Sherman and Jon Heyman on Tuesday, Holmes emphasized that the star-studded roster is built with a championship in mind, combining veteran talent and emerging prospects.
Star-Studded Roster Fuels Championship Ambitions
Team USA’s lineup boasts some of baseball’s biggest names, including first-time WBC participants Aaron Judge and Bryce Harper, alongside promising youngsters such as Roman Anthony and Nolan McLean. Holmes described this collection of players as a “dream team,” reflecting the high stakes and lofty expectations surrounding the group.
We’re in this thing to win it. It’s very obvious, that’s what we want, that’s what we’re here for,
Holmes stated.
The more you play, the more you see it matters to the fans, the more you see how much it matters…we all feel that we all want it.
– Clay Holmes, Pitcher, New York Mets
Holmes Reflects on the Experience of Joining Baseball’s Elite
Transitioning from his role as a former reliever for the Yankees to his current position as a starting pitcher for the Mets, Holmes has relished the opportunity to share the field with distinguished players like Judge. He remarked on the unique camaraderie and significance of competing alongside the sport’s finest athletes.
It is definitely a dream. It’s the best players in the world,
Holmes said. “You’re on the same team, you’re on the same buses, you’re chatting it up in the locker rooms, and you’re playing for something that matters.
I think this has come together tremendously,
he added.
It’s the place you want to be. It’s the baseball you want to play. And it’s lived up to the hype for sure.
– Clay Holmes, Pitcher, New York Mets
Aaron Judge’s Leadership Resonates Throughout the Team
Holmes highlighted Aaron Judge’s role as U.S. captain, praising his leadership qualities and competitive drive, which have created a strong influence within the clubhouse. Judge’s commitment to winning, according to Holmes, inspires the entire team.
To have him as a captain, to just have that presence of what he stands for, how he pushes team and players is the start of this,
Holmes noted.
He’s a leader, and it happens naturally for him.
– Clay Holmes, Pitcher, New York Mets
Holmes observed how Judge’s passion for success
bleeds out to the rest of the clubhouse.
Team USA’s Strong Start in Pool Play
After three games in pool play, Team USA holds an undefeated 3-0 record. The Americans dominated Brazil with a 15-5 victory, followed by an overwhelming 9-1 win over Great Britain. Most recently, they edged out Mexico 5-3 in a tightly contested matchup on Monday night.
The team’s final pool play contest is scheduled for Tuesday at 9 p.m. against Italy. A win in this game would secure the top seed in Pool B and set Team USA up to face the runner-up from Pool A in the quarterfinals. Holmes embraces a “championship or bust” mindset as they advance further in the tournament.
What Lies Ahead for Team USA and Clay Holmes
Looking beyond pool play, Team USA must win three additional games to claim its second World Baseball Classic title. With Holmes pitching alongside a roster that mixes seasoned stars, such as Aaron Judge and Bryce Harper, with promising talent including Roman Anthony, the team is poised to make a strong postseason run. Their unity, leadership, and evident hunger for victory mark them as serious contenders to bring the championship back to the U.S.
This tournament not only tests the players’ skills but also strengthens their bonds, as Holmes articulated the importance of representing their country on a global stage. As the World Baseball Classic progresses, all eyes will remain on Team USA’s quest for glory with Clay Holmes playing a vital role in their pursuit.
