Yankees breakout starting pitcher inching closer to return from injury

The New York Yankees could be getting some reinforcements in the starting rotation soon.

With Luis Gil currently on the injured list with a lower back strain, the Yankees are also waiting the return of right-hander Clarke Schmidt.

The 28-year-old has been on the injured list since May 30 due to a right lat strain, which put a pause on a breakout campaign to begin the season.

Manager Aaron Boone told reporters before Wednesday's series loss to the Washington Nationals that Schmidt will likely make another rehab start following his second one on Wednesday in Triple-A.

Schmidt said earlier this month that he planned on making his return to the active roster by the end of August while general manager Brian Cashman was a bit more cautious — suggesting a mid-September return.

The former first-round pick in the 2017 MLB Draft has made two rehab starts thus far, and he's shined in both of them.

In his first rehab stint in Double-A last week, Schmidt tossed 3.2 innings, allowing a home run as his only hit surrendered while striking out six and walking one on 48 pitches.

During his second rehab start Wednesday in Triple-A, Schmidt tossed 3.0 innings of one-run ball, allowing three hits and one walk while striking out five. He extended to 58 pitches.

In 11 starts across 60.2 innings pitched before the injury, Schmidt had a 5-3 record with a 2.52 ERA.

The Yankees need more consistency from the starting rotation so Schmidt's return will be a welcomed one if he can find his early-season form quickly.

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