TAMPA — Yankees starter Clarke Schmidt is dealing with a “barking” back, pitching coach Matt Blake told the Daily News.
Schmidt has yet to throw live batting practice in front of reporters this spring, as his back started flaring up following a Feb. 14 bullpen session. However, Blake didn’t sound overly concerned about the issue, stating that Schmidt is just taking a few extra days before getting back on the mound.
“Just trying to be smart this time of year,” Blake said.
The only treatment Schmidt has received is considered normal maintenance.
Blake added that Schmidt was initially ahead of schedule in his preparation to face live batters.
Schmidt projects as the Yankees’ fourth or fifth starter in 2025. The rest of the expected rotation consists of Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, Carlos Rodón and Luis Gil. There’s also Marcus Stroman, who currently lines up as the team’s sixth starter.
Stroman has been the subject of trade rumors for months, but the veteran could slot into the rotation if one of the aforementioned pitchers isn’t ready for their first start of the regular season.
The Yankees also have Carlos Carrasco and JT Brubaker as experienced depth options.
Schmidt, 28, is entering his third season as a member of the Yankees rotation. A right lat strain limited him to 16 starts last year. He posted a 2.85 ERA over 85.1 innings before allowing seven earned runs over three starts and 12 frames in the postseason.
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