Yankees RHP Clarke Schmidt (shoulder) likely IL-bound

Field Level Media|published: Fri 21st March, 13:02 2025

MLB: World Series-Los Angeles Dodgers at New York Yankees

Oct 28, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Yankees pitcher Clarke Schmidt (36) throws during the first inning in game three of the 2024 MLB World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

New York Yankees right-hander Clarke Schmidt likely will begin the season on the injured list with shoulder fatigue, multiple outlets reported Friday.

The 29-year-old starter told reporters that taking his first turn in the rotation would "handcuff" the team due to his pitch count.

Schmidt said he felt good following his 32-pitch live batting practice session on Thursday after being scratched from his scheduled start Monday.

Schmidt was 5-5 with a career-low 2.85 ERA in 16 starts last season, striking out 93 batters and walking 30 in 85 1/3 innings. He went 0-1 with a 5.25 ERA in three postseason starts, including a Game 3 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series.

A first-round draft pick by the Yankees in 2017, Schmidt has a career record of 19-20 with a 3.95 ERA and two saves in 83 games (53 starts) over five seasons.

--Field Level Media