New York Yankees pitcher Clarke Schmidt is making strides in his recovery from a right shoulder injury. The 29-year-old, currently on the injured list, took a significant step forward with a rehab start for Double-A Somerset on Saturday. Schmidt impressed by striking out seven batters over 3.1 scoreless innings in a 6-2 win against the Hartford Yard Goats, allowing just one hit and one walk. He threw 37 of his 52 pitches for strikes, showcasing his command on the mound.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone indicated that Schmidt will make one more minor-league start before being activated. The plan is for him to return to the major league rotation, with a potential season debut scheduled for April 15 or 16 against the Kansas City Royals.
While the Yankees are off to a strong 6-2 start, they have struggled on the mound, allowing at least seven runs in three games. The pitching staff, with six pitchers owning ERAs above 5.40, has faced its challenges. Notably, former All-Star Marcus Stroman has allowed seven runs in just 8.2 innings, and injuries to Schmidt, Gerrit Cole (elbow), and Luis Gil (lat) have forced Stroman into the rotation.
With Schmidt’s return looming, the Yankees may need to make further adjustments to their pitching staff. Carlos Carrasco and Will Warren have earned rotation spots due to the injuries. Warren, with minor league options remaining, could be sent to Triple-A when Schmidt is activated, though the Yankees haven’t ruled out using him in the bullpen. Carrasco has struggled early, giving up six runs in his first 7.1 innings.
