Yankees' Schmidt Out Until 2027 After Surgery

New York Yankees pitcher Clarke Schmidt will undergo his second Tommy John surgery on Friday after tearing the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, sidelining him for the rest of this season and all of 2025, with a possible return no earlier than 2027. Schmidt previously had the same surgery in 2017 and had been dealing with elbow soreness since early June before leaving his July 3 start against the Toronto Blue Jays. His absence further depletes the Yankees' starting rotation, which is already missing Gerrit Cole due to his own Tommy John surgery earlier this year. Schmidt compiled a 3.32 ERA in 14 starts during the 2024 season. The Yankees are expected to pursue a new starter at the trade deadline to remain competitive in the AL East. Cam Schlittler, who debuted following Schmidt's injury, may receive additional opportunities in the rotation.