TAMPA — Clay Holmes’ sinker is a double-edged sword.

Part of what makes it so good — the dip, duck and dive movement that often baffles hitters — is also what makes it never too far away from losing control if something is slightly off-kilter in his delivery. 

The sinker’s tightrope walk, and perhaps the injuries that may have affected it, played a role in Holmes going from a dominant All-Star closer in the first half of last season to a much bigger question mark over the final two months.

The pitch has been described by some as a bowling ball. Now Holmes is trying to put up bumpers for it to ensure he is able to harness the sinker more consistently this season.