Acce s the Mets beat like never before Join Post Sports+ for exciting subscriber-only features, including real-time texting with Mike Puma about the inside buzz on the Mets. PORT ST. LUCIE Clay Holmes extends beyond the physical aspect. Now at the point in spring training that hes getting to work multiple times through the batting order, the former reliever is focusing on nuances. Doing a little more than just throwing sinkers, Holmes said Sunday. I am going to see how I use my pitches, have some type of game plan, read swings, I want to deviate. I am going to experience a little more these next few outings. In a 7-6 exhibition victory over the Nationals, Holmes extended to 67 pitches over 3 / shutout innings. Clay Holmes throws a pitch during his Grapefruit League outing Feb. 27 for the Mets. Corey Sipkin for the NY Post He allowed one hit and three walks with eight strikeouts. With his sinker erratic early, Holmes looked toward other options, including a Zach LaVine Jersey changeup he has improved this spring. Holmes threw 16 changeups that induced eight swings. Explore More He received six swings and mi ses. Today I learned that the sinker command wasnt totally there early and instead of trying to force that, the changeup allowed me to pull back a little bit and I really got to see how it was playing, Holmes said. I got a ground ball early with it and some swing-and-mi s. Kind of being forced a little bit and have some succe s with it was good to see. Clay Holmes is pictured during his Grapefruit League outing for the Mets on Feb. 27. Corey Sipkin for the NY Post Holmes will receive another three starts this spring, with a goal of building up past 90 pitches. These next few outings I am looking forward to stretching toward that final pitch count, Holmes said. But also just seeing how my stuff plays the second and third time through the lineup. Brandon Nimmo expects to resume running on Monday and anticipates a return to the Grapefruit League later in the week. Nimmo, who received a gel injection in his right knee in recent days, has appeared in only one game this spring. Justin Hagenman, Kevin Herget, Austin Warren and Jared Young were optioned to minor league camp. In addition, Rico Garcia, Grant Hartwig, Yacksel Ros and Brandon Waddell have been rea signed to minor league camp. The Mets are left with 49 players in camp. Delivering insights on all things Amazins Sign up for Inside the Mets by Mike Puma, exclusively on Sports+ Thank you By clicking above you agree to the and . Enjoy this Post Sports+ exclusive newsletter! Darryl Strawberry arrived to camp as a guest instructor. Toni Kukoc Jersey