Yankees' Pitching Puzzle: Schmidt's Injury and the Road Ahead
The New York Yankees are in a challenging spot with Clarke Schmidt's likely Tommy John surgery, which would sideline him for the rest of this season and most of the next. The team is now racing to find a solution to fill this significant void in their starting rotation.
Schmidt's Impact
Schmidt has been a key player for the Yankees, particularly in recent outings. He posted a 2.18 ERA in his last seven starts, making his absence a major blow. This situation is further complicated by the fact that ace Gerrit Cole is already out for the year after undergoing the same surgery earlier.
Possible Solutions
The Yankees have a few options to consider:
Promote a Prospect
- Cam Schlittler has been impressive in the minors, with a 4.18 ERA in five Triple-A starts and a high strikeout rate.
Trade for a Starting Pitcher
- The trade deadline is approaching, and acquiring a quality starter won't be cheap.
- Sandy Alcantara of the Miami Marlins is a name to watch, despite his rough season. However, trading for him could cost the Yankees some of their top prospects.
Injury Concerns
The Yankees also have injury concerns with other pitchers:
- Luis Gil is expected to return after the All-Star break, providing some relief.
- Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, and Marcus Stroman all have lengthy injury histories, making it crucial for the team to avoid further setbacks.
The Way Forward
Ultimately, the Yankees might decide to stick with their current roster and hope for the best. They could promote a prospect like Schlittler or make a trade for a mid-tier starter. Whatever they choose, this is a crucial time for the team. They need to make the right moves to stay competitive.