The Yankees have announced that RHP Clarke Schmidt and Ian Hamilton have finished their rehab assignments and have been activated off the 60-day IL. Schmidt, who suffered a right lat strain, has been out since May. Hamilton, who has been sidelined since June, is also returning from a lower back injury. In a corresponding move, RHP Phil Bickford and Nick Burdi have both been designated for assignment. Both returning pitchers, particularly Schmidt, could have key roles for New York as September winds down.
Two Yankee Pitchers Returning From 60-Day Injured List
Prior to today’s game, the Yankees made the following roster moves:
• Returned RHP Clarke Schmidt (#36) from his rehab assignment and reinstated him from the 60-day injured list.
• Returned RHP Ian Hamilton (#71) from his rehab assignment and reinstated him from the 60-day…— New York Yankees (@Yankees) September 7, 2024
Early Season Success
Before going down in May, the 28-year-old Schmidt was among the Yankees’ best starters. In 11 starts, he’s pitched to a 5-3 record with a 2.52 ERA and 67 strikeouts in 60 2/3 innings. If Schmidt can build off the success he had earlier this year, he could potentially see a spot in the rotation come the postseason.
On the other hand, Hamilton has not improved in his second year in pinstripes. In 27 appearances, he’s posted an ERA of 4.55 and a WHIP of 1.58 across 29 2/3 innings. However, if he can perform like he did last season, in which he pitched to a 2.64 ERA with 69 strikeouts, he could be a very valuable option out of the bullpen.
Two Relievers DFA’d
Schmidt and Hamilton will replace relievers Phil Bickford and Nick Burdi, who have not had any major impact from the bullpen this season. However, it’s worth noting that in Burdi’s limited action (9 2/3 innings), he’s produced a 1.86 ERA with 12 strikeouts. He could be a decent option from Triple-A should any other Yankee relievers get hurt.
What’s Next
Schmidt will make his return start on Saturday afternoon against the Cubs at Wrigley Field. He will face off against Javier Assad, who has been a stronger piece of Chicago’s rotation, which will likely produce a pitcher’s duel as the Yankees hope to win their first series since besting the Rockies at home in late August.
Main Photo Credits: David Frerker-Imagn Images
