Clarke Schmidt Nearing Yankees Return After Tommy John

Clarke Schmidt is on the verge of returning to the New York Yankees, approximately 14 months after undergoing Tommy John surgery. Yankees manager Aaron Boone indicated Schmidt will complete one final rehab outing, likely with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, before being activated from the 60-day injured list. This outing will occur on two days' rest, following a meticulous rehab schedule.

Schmidt's activation is anticipated for September 14th, ahead of the Yankees' series opener against the Minnesota Twins. He is expected to fill a role as a multiple-inning reliever for the final two weeks of the regular season. Postseason eligibility requires a petition to the commissioner's office, potentially replacing an injured player like Giancarlo Stanton.

The Yankees, currently holding an 84-62 record, are highly likely to make the postseason. While the division title remains a possibility, their primary focus is securing a Wild Card spot. Schmidt's potential return could bolster the team's pitching depth for a playoff run, with his long-term future possibly in relief.