Yankees’ Clarke Schmidt moves closer to return as Max Fried IL stint nears end

Two key Yankees pitchers are moving closer to returning to action after their stints on the injured list.

The New York Yankees may have a key piece of their pitching staff back in the mix sooner rather than later. Right-hander Clarke Schmidt made just 14 starts in 2025 after tests revealed he required Tommy John Surgery. The 30-year-old has thrown a few bullpens, but the Yankees haven't sent him on a rehab assignment yet.