Overview
- Schmidt threw 23 pitches (20 strikes) over two innings on Wednesday, allowing one run on three hits, striking out three batters, issuing no walks and topping out near 95 mph.
- Manager Aaron Boone called the performance encouraging but said Schmidt will need “a couple, few more” rehab outings before the club considers activating him.
- The Yankees are preparing Schmidt for a bullpen role rather than a starter’s rebuild, with the club simulating relief sequences in his minor‑league work to test short‑appearance durability.
- New York’s relief corps has been stretched by injuries, including Fernando Cruz’s IL placement for a partially torn UCL, creating a clear need for a multi‑inning or high‑leverage swing option.
- Schmidt had Tommy John surgery in July 2025 and is moving through the standard phased recovery that typically takes 11–13 months, so the team is prioritizing absence of pain, strike rate and pitch mix as the next steps.