The New York Yankees’ beleaguered rotation is on the brink of a much-needed boost as Clarke Schmidt inches closer to his 2025 debut. The right-hander, sidelined since spring training with a rotator cuff injury, has completed a promising rehab stint and now eyes a critical return. With the Yankees’ starters posting the highest ERA in MLB (5.46) and veterans like Marcus Stroman faltering, Schmidt’s comeback couldn’t be timelier. But will he take the mound against the Kansas City Royals this week?
Clarke Schmidt’s comeback trail
Schmidt’s road to recovery has been meticulous. After two dominant rehab starts at Double-A Somerset—including a four-inning, scoreless outing with four strikeouts—the 29-year-old has been greenlit to rejoin the New York Yankees’ rotation. Manager Aaron Boone confirmed Schmidt will start Wednesday’s game against the Royals, capping a six-week absence that tested the pitcher’s resolve.
“Everything went good, and [I’m] feeling good,” Clarke Schmidt shared, reflecting on his rehab progress. “I’m eager to get out there… This is something I don’t want to happen again.”
His return injects stability into a rotation in disarray, particularly after Stroman’s recent knee scare and Carlos Rodón’s rollercoaster performances.
Why the New York Yankees need Schmidt now more than ever
New York’s pitching woes have been glaring. Non-Max Fried starters (Rodon, Stroman, Carlos Carrasco, Will Warren) have struggled to consistently navigate even mid-tier lineups, leaving the Yankees’ potent offense scrambling to outslug opponents. Schmidt’s 2024 campaign, marked by a 2.85 ERA and 1.184 WHIP in 16 starts, positions him as a linchpin for this staff.
Boone didn’t mince words about Schmidt’s value: “He’s turned into a really good pitcher in the league… Excited to get him back and know what he can mean to our staff.”
The righty’s ability to mix a sharp slider with a revitalized sinker could neutralize Kansas City’s aggressive, contact-heavy lineup—a stark contrast to the walk-prone tendencies plaguing New York Yankees starters.
A litmus for Schmidt’s impact
Clarke Schmidt’s workload will be monitored—he tossed 61 pitches in his final rehab start—but expectations are cautiously optimistic. The Royals, while improved, rank 22nd in MLB in runs scored, offering a manageable reentry point. For Schmidt, efficiency is key: “I want to be one of the guys these guys rely on,” he emphasized.
His return also alleviates pressure on the bullpen, which has shouldered a heavy load amid short starts from Rodón and Stroman. A five-inning, quality outing from Schmidt could reset the rotation’s rhythm ahead of a grueling AL East slate.
Barring last-minute setbacks, Clarke Schmidt will take the mound against the Royals on Wednesday. His rehab progress, coupled with Boone’s confirmation, signals a strategic pivot for the Yankees. In a season teetering between promise and panic, Clarke Schmidt’s arm represents more than just innings—it’s a lifeline for a staff desperate for steadiness.
For the New York Yankees, the message is clear: Reinforcements have arrived. Now, it’s time to rally.