New York Mets reliever Clay Holmes suffered a fractured right fibula when struck by a 111.1 mph comebacker from Spencer Jones during Friday's loss to the Yankees. Holmes, who has posted a 2.39 ERA over 4-4 record this season, was placed on the 15-day injured list as the team continues struggling at 18-26 in last place in the NL East.

Manager Carlos Mendoza indicated the fracture will require six to eight weeks to heal, with Holmes needing an additional spring training-type buildup before returning to game action. The timeline suggests Holmes could rejoin the Mets' bullpen during the final two months of the season, providing a significant boost to a relief corps that has struggled without him.

Holmes joins a crowded injured list that includes Francisco Lindor, Francisco Alvarez, Jorge Polanco, and Luis Robert Jr., among others. Mendoza acknowledged the difficulty of losing key contributors, emphasizing Holmes' importance to the clubhouse culture. With the Mets' high payroll failing to translate to wins, Holmes' return could provide stability in a bullpen that desperately needs reliable arms.