The Yankees are bracing for a critical week, and not just because of the opponents ahead. Help is finally on the way for a starting rotation that’s been teetering on the edge, and it’s arriving in the form of Clarke Schmidt.
Manager Aaron Boone hinted on Thursday that Schmidt is preparing to rejoin the team in 5-6 days, potentially in time for the upcoming series against the Kansas City Royals. His second rehab outing with Double-A Somerset was a big step forward — four scoreless innings, clean mechanics, and enough to convince the Yankees he’s ready for the big stage again.
A Stabilizing Arm the Rotation Desperately Needs
The Yankees’ starting five has been an ever-shifting puzzle this season, with arms coming and going like a game of musical chairs. While Max Fried and Carlos Rodón have carried the top end, the back half of the rotation has looked more like a patch job.
That’s where Schmidt becomes vital.
Last season, the 29-year-old posted a 2.85 ERA over 85.1 innings, striking out 9.81 batters per nine with an 80% left-on-base rate and a solid 40.5% ground ball rate. He wasn’t just reliable — he was efficient and composed, the kind of pitcher who doesn’t rattle easily even when runners get on — and then he got hurt.
Slotting Schmidt back into the mix gives the Yankees a true number three starter — someone who belongs above Will Warren and Carlos Carrasco, and frankly, probably above Marcus Stroman at this point given the way Stroman’s year has started.
Schmidt Brings Balance Back to the Bronx
What the Yankees need right now isn’t just innings — they need balance. They need someone who can keep games from snowballing and give the bullpen a breather. Schmidt has proven he can do just that.
He’s not overpowering in the traditional sense, but his pitch mix, command, and ability to induce weak contact give him a unique edge. When he’s locked in, he’s the guy who can throw six efficient innings and turn a 3-2 game into a win.
Schmidt knows what’s expected of him — and he’s not shying away from it.
“It can be frustrating especially when you’re not there competing with your guys. I want to be one of those guys they can rely on for 32 starts every year. I want to make it up for them in the long run,” Schmidt said.
With his return likely coming within the next 5–6 days, the Yankees will be getting a much-needed shot of reliability. The timing couldn’t be better.