The New York Yankees announced Wednesday that right‑hander Clarke Schmidt has been activated from the 60‑day injured list, ending a season‑long absence that began after his second Tommy John surgery in July 2025. Schmidt, 30, will likely see action out of the bullpen as the Yankees solidify their pitching staff heading into the postseason.
Schmidt’s comeback timeline
Schmidt’s last major‑league appearance came on July 3, 2025, when he posted a 4‑4 record with a 3.32 ERA over 14 starts. Following the surgery, he completed five rehab assignments split between Triple‑A Scranton/Wilkes‑Barre and Double‑A Somerset, allowing three runs on six hits across seven innings. The Yankees felt his progress warranted a roster move, and he was officially reinstated on Wednesday.
Career overview
Over six seasons with New York, Schmidt has appeared in 97 games (67 starts), compiling a 23‑24 record, two saves, and a 3.82 ERA over 393 1/3 innings. His durability and ability to generate strikeouts have made him a valuable piece of the rotation when healthy.
Roster implications
With the rotation largely set as the club eyes a deep playoff run, the Yankees expect Schmidt to contribute from the bullpen, providing depth and experience in high‑leverage situations. The move also coincided with the designation for assignment of infielder/outfielder Oswaldo Cabrera, 27, who has spent his entire career with the organization after signing as an international free agent in 2015.
Cabrera’s status
Cabrera, who appeared in just three games this season and went hitless in nine at‑bats, spent most of the year with Scranton/Wilkes‑Barre, hitting .288 with 19 home runs and 69 RBIs in 122 games. The Yankees have not disclosed his next destination, but the DFA clears a roster spot for Schmidt’s activation.
Looking ahead
The Yankees enter the final stretch of the regular season with a rotation that appears set, and the addition of Schmidt adds a seasoned arm to the staff. Fans will be watching closely to see how quickly he can regain his pre‑injury form and contribute to New York’s postseason aspirations.
Field Level Media contributed the original report.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.