UPDATE: New York Yankees right-hander Clarke Schmidt is targeting a return after the 2024 All-Star break following successful surgery on his pitching elbow. Just over two weeks post-operation, Schmidt revealed his optimistic outlook while sporting a metal brace on his right arm.

The surgery, performed by renowned surgeon Dr. Keith Meister in Dallas on July 11, 2023, involved reattaching the ulnar collateral ligament, a procedure less invasive than a full Tommy John reconstruction. “It wasn’t a full reconstruction,” Schmidt stated before the Yankees kicked off a four-game series against Tampa Bay on Monday. “They didn’t have to go in and put a new ligament in… They just reattached it to the bone.”

Schmidt expressed relief, noting that the recovery timeline is estimated at about 11 to 13 months, significantly shorter than the potential 14 to 16 months required for a full reconstruction. “I think we dodged a major bullet with that,” he added, emphasizing his determination to be a key player next season.

The 27-year-old pitcher first felt discomfort during a game against the Cleveland Guardians on June 4. Despite his pain, Schmidt managed to complete five starts, posting a 3.32 ERA and a 4-4 record over 14 starts this season before the surgery. His last standout performance was on June 21, where he threw 103 pitches in seven hitless innings against the Baltimore Orioles.

Schmidt’s injury history includes a previous Tommy John surgery back in May 2017, just before the Yankees selected him with the 16th overall pick in the amateur draft.

Fans and teammates alike are rallying behind Schmidt as he embarks on this recovery journey. His determination and positive outlook offer hope for a strong comeback in the 2025 season, making his return eagerly anticipated by the Yankees’ faithful.

As the Yankees navigate the remainder of the current season, Schmidt’s progress will be closely monitored. For now, all eyes are on his rehabilitation and the potential impact he will have when he returns to the mound.

Stay tuned for further updates on Schmidt’s recovery and the Yankees’ season as it unfolds.