The New York Yankees seem to be over their mid-season slump as they have won three straight series. Since Clarke Schmidt was placed on the injured list due to a right lat strain, there has been a problem with the pitching staff. The starter’s condition has now been updated by manager Aaron Boone, according to Gary Phillips of the New York Daily News.
“Aaron Boone and Clarke Schmidt expressed optimism about the pitcher’s return by the end of this month, as reported by Phillips on X, formerly known as Twitter. Schmidt also mentioned his willingness to transition to a bullpen role if necessary.
Schmidt had been enjoying a standout season before his injury, boasting a 2.25 ERA and a 162 ERA+ in 11 starts. His presence at the back end of the rotation was crucial during the Yankees’ strong start, where they held a 37-18 record, tied for the best in the American League when Schmidt last pitched. However, since his injury, their performance has dipped to 30-28.
The timing of Schmidt’s injury coincided with Gerrit Cole’s return, with Cody Poteet filling in briefly. Schmidt’s potential return could provide valuable innings as the season progresses and into the playoffs, whether as a starter or out of the bullpen. The Yankees bolstered their pitching options at the trade deadline with right-handers Mark Leiter Jr. and Enyel De Los Santos, possibly leading to other starters shifting to relief roles.”
Yankees’ postseason pitching strategies
If the Yankees are going to win the World Series, they need to improve their starting pitching. Marcus Stroman, Nestor Cortes, and Carlos Rodon all have ERAs greater than 4.00. In particular, Stroman has struggled, recording a 6.32 ERA in 47 innings across his previous ten starts. Schmidt’s return gives the Yankees’ rotation the depth they need.
Tim Hill is the only left-hander in the bullpen after their deadline deals. Leiter has been very effective against left-handed hitters, but the postseason demands the addition of another left-handed pitcher. Lefty Cortes has had difficulty providing the Yankees with depth as a starter.
