Clay Holmes is getting closer to returning to the majors. The question is whether or not he will do so as a member of the New York Mets.

Holmes had a strong showing in his second rehab appearance on Tuesday, allowing two hits and two walks over four shutout innings, striking out three batters. His outing also drew plenty of attention as Ken Rosenthal, Will Sammon and Katie Woo of The Athletic reported that at least seven teams had representatives at Holmes' start.

Holmes had been off to an impressive start to the season until he fractured his fibula after being struck with a comebacker. He posted a 2.39 ERA and a 1.101 WHIP over his 52.2 innings, striking out 45 batters with 18 walks.

Clay Holmes could bring back significant return for New York Mets

While Holmes is drawing significant attention ahead of the Aug. 3 trade deadline, the question is whether or not the Mets want to trade him. There had been reports that the Mets want to work out an extension with Holmes, although the two sides had yet to have any substantive talks as of Friday. 

Ongoing discussions regarding an extension may have to wait until the trade deadline. The Mets would be best served by gauging Holmes' market, weighing whether or not the return would be worth the risk of losing him in free agency.

However, Holmes would be one of the better starting pitchers available, a viable middle-of-the-rotation arm who could make a difference for a playoff team. He could bring back a package of prospects that could help the Mets build a sustainable contender.