 Heading into Spring training , Clay was one of the top young pitching prospects in the Yankees' organization, along with Jim Beattie and Gil Patterson, hoping to earn a spot on the opening day roster.Each vocalized frustration with the organization when they acquired pitchers Rich Gossage, Andy Messersmith and Rawly Eastwick after the 1977 season believing that it hindered their chances of making the club.In return, Clay received his fair share of criticism from some of the veteran pitchers with the Yankees.