The Yankees’ stellar 2024 rotation has hit a significant hurdle. Right-hander Clarke Schmidt is out for 4-6 weeks due to a strained right lat, confirmed by an MRI and Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles.
“It’s going to be a while,” said Yankees manager Aaron Boone at Angel Stadium.
Rotation Adjustments and Replacements
In response to Schmidt’s injury, the Yankees have recalled right-hander Cody Morris from Class AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Right-hander Cody Poteet is expected to take Schmidt’s spot in the rotation for Saturday’s game against the San Francisco Giants. Boone mentioned that it’s still uncertain if Poteet will remain in the rotation long-term.
Schmidt’s Recent Performance and Injury Details
Schmidt’s last game was on Sunday in San Diego, where he allowed one earned run over five innings in a 5-2 loss to the Padres. After the game, Schmidt mentioned he wasn’t feeling 100% but didn’t specify any issues. His inability to recover between starts led to the MRI that revealed the strain.
Yankees’ Rotation Success Despite Challenges
Despite setbacks, the Yankees’ rotation has performed excellently. After ace Gerrit Cole’s elbow nerve irritation, rookie Luis Gil stepped up, helping the staff achieve a remarkable 0.99 ERA over their last 16 starts through May 29. Schmidt, in his second full season, had an impressive 5-3 record and a 2.52 ERA over 11 starts.
Poteet’s Readiness and Potential
Cody Poteet, who is 3-0 with a 4.05 ERA in seven starts for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, is ready for the challenge. Boone expressed excitement about signing Poteet as a free agent in January, believing in his potential to contribute to the team.
Limited Options for Schmidt’s Replacement
With Gil’s success, the Yankees’ rotation depth hasn’t been extensively tested until now. Options are limited, with Clayton Beeter on the IL and Will Warren struggling at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Morris, mainly a reliever this season, is another option. Poteet, who pitched six strong innings in an April win against Cleveland, appears the most likely candidate.
Poteet’s Background and Recent Form
A former fourth-round pick by the Marlins, Poteet has MLB experience, going 2-4 with a 4.45 ERA with Miami in 2021-22. After Tommy John surgery in 2022 and a recent blister issue, he was set to return to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre’s rotation.
Gerrit Cole’s Progress
Gerrit Cole, rehabbing from his injury, pitched to live hitters and might begin a rehab assignment by Tuesday. Boone reported that Cole was pleased with his session, aiming for a return to the Yankees’ rotation in about a month.
With Schmidt out, the Yankees face a challenge, but their depth and recent performance offer hope for continued success.