Clarke Schmidt Takes Positive Step Toward Yankees Return

Clarke Schmidt, the 30‑year‑old right‑hander who’s been grinding his way back from a second Tommy John surgery, finally got a taste of live action on Saturday. In a rain‑delayed day that would have otherwise been a Yankees‑Dodgers showdown, Schmidt stepped onto the mound for a simulated game – his first throw‑down that mimicked real‑game conditions.

“It felt good, nice and easy,” Schmidt said, smiling as he described the experience. “I was moving well, got some competition, and even had my cleats in the dirt again. It was exciting.” He tossed 15 pitches, all fastballs, holding back his breaking stuff on the advice of the team’s medical staff. The fastballs topped out at about 94 mph, a solid indicator that his arm is waking up properly.

The plan, according to the Yankees’ rehab coaches, is to repeat a simulated outing in five days, then gradually increase intensity. “We’re easing him in,” a trainer explained, “because the last thing we want is to rush the process and set him back.”

Schmidt’s role when he finally returns is still up for debate. Manager Aaron Boone stressed that the club is keeping options open, whether Schmidt ends up as a starter or slots into the bullpen. “He’s ready to do whatever the Yankees need,” Boone said. “We’ll figure out the best fit when he’s fully healthy.”

For his part, Schmidt is laser‑focused on re‑joining his teammates. “That’s the only thing on my mind right now – helping this team,” he confessed. “I know how talented we are, and I want to be a part of that success in any way I can.” The pitcher recalled his 2024 season, when he logged a 3.32 ERA over 14 starts before the elbow injury sidelined him. The memory of that stretch seems to fuel his determination.

Meanwhile, the Yankees are quietly optimistic. The club announced a positive rehab contract that keeps Schmidt on board while he finishes his recovery, underscoring their belief that he can once again be a valuable piece of the rotation—or at the very least, a reliable arm out of the bullpen.

Fans will have to wait a little longer, but each simulated game brings Schmidt a step nearer to the big‑league mound. If his progress stays on this trajectory, the Bronx crowd might soon be hearing the roar of a newly‑rehabbed Schmidt again.