NEW YORK, NY — As the New York Yankees gear up for a crucial stretch in their season, all eyes are on Clarke Schmidt’s impending return to the starting rotation. The right-hander, who has been sidelined due to a strained right lat muscle since late May, is making strides in his rehab, leaving fans and the Yankees organization eager for his comeback.
Clarke Schmidt’s Rehab Progress
On Wednesday night, Schmidt made his second minor league rehab start at Class AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. In his three innings of work, Schmidt threw 58 pitches, allowing one run on three hits and a walk, while striking out five. Yankees manager Aaron Boone mentioned earlier that day that Schmidt would likely need one more rehab start before rejoining the major league rotation.
Should Schmidt make another rehab start on Monday, he is expected to be ready to pitch for the Yankees during their series against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field that weekend. While Boone did not confirm a specific date for Schmidt’s return, he indicated that the team would reassess after Schmidt’s next outing.
Schmidt’s injury occurred on May 26 during a start against the San Diego Padres, leading to his placement on the injured list the following day. He resumed bullpen sessions on July 20 and began his rehab assignment on August 23 at Class AA Somerset.
Luis Gil’s Potential Impact on the Rotation
Schmidt isn’t the only pitcher the Yankees are eagerly awaiting. Luis Gil, who has been recovering from a lower back strain, is also nearing a return. Gil is scheduled to make a minor league rehab start on Sunday, after successfully throwing 65-70 pitches in a simulated setting earlier in the week.
If all goes well, Gil could be activated from the injured list on September 6, just in time for the Yankees’ series in Chicago. Gil’s return would further bolster a rotation that could soon feature both Schmidt and Gil alongside Gerrit Cole, Nestor Cortes, Carlos Rodon, and Marcus Stroman.
“Aug 7, 2024; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher Luis Gil (81) pitches against the Los Angeles Angels during the first inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports Brad Penner, Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports”
What the Rotation Could Look Like
With Schmidt and Gil potentially rejoining the rotation, the Yankees may consider temporarily employing a six-man rotation, especially with rosters expanding by two players on September 1. This move would provide additional rest for the starters and allow the team to manage their workloads more effectively as they push for a playoff spot.
However, as the postseason approaches, the Yankees will likely trim their rotation to a four-man unit, with some starters transitioning to bullpen roles. Schmidt, who has posted a 5-3 record with a 2.52 ERA in 11 starts this season, and Gil, with a 12-6 record and a 3.39 ERA in 24 starts, will both be crucial pieces of the Yankees’ puzzle as they aim for a deep playoff run.
Schmidt’s and Gil’s returns could not come at a better time for the Yankees, as they look to solidify their rotation and make a strong push toward the postseason.
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