Clarke Schmidt, a key pitcher for the New York Yankees, is set to resume throwing activities following a brief setback due to back soreness. The 29-year-old right-hander, who celebrated his birthday on Thursday, reported experiencing "general soreness" after a recent ramp-up in his training. This soreness prompted the Yankees to adjust his preparation schedule ahead of the upcoming season.
Schmidt is expected to throw a bullpen session on Friday, marking his first session since the discomfort was noted. He emphasized the importance of not rushing back into full activity, stating, “It’s early, so we don’t want to push through anything crazy and make an issue.” His cautious approach reflects the team’s strategy to manage player health carefully during spring training.
The Yankees have been proactive in addressing Schmidt’s condition, allowing him to take a step back after he experienced increased soreness while throwing live sessions at the minor league complex. Schmidt mentioned that he had been throwing well prior to this issue, but the team decided to slow down his buildup to ensure he remains healthy for the regular season.
Aside from Schmidt, fellow pitcher Marcus Stroman, who missed the initial days of workouts, is also set to make his appearance in Friday’s Grapefruit League opener. Schmidt noted that most of the Yankees’ starting pitchers have already faced hitters multiple times since the start of camp, highlighting the team’s ongoing preparations as they gear up for the season.
While Schmidt is uncertain about when he will participate in games, his immediate focus is on successfully completing the bullpen session. He expressed confidence in his training regimen, stating, “I put a lot of work in on my body. Just a little soreness and trying to be smart with it.” This positive outlook suggests that he is optimistic about being ready for the start of the season.
As the Yankees continue their spring training in Tampa, the team’s management is closely monitoring player health to avoid any long-term issues that could affect their performance in the upcoming season. Schmidt’s situation serves as a reminder of the challenges athletes face during preparation, but with careful management, he is hopeful for a smooth transition back into full training activities.