3 Yankees rotation replacement after Carlos Rodón and Frankie Montas injuries
By Lbaquero
Yankees: Who will step up for Carlos Rodón and Freddie Montas?
RHP Clarke Schmidt
The former Yankees No. 2 prospect will now be expected to step up in what could be his final opportunity to be a Major League starter. Schmidt has been used as a swingman with the Yankees, taking small spot starts and long relief appearances.
Schmidt was okay in his first season as a full-time big leaguer, posting a 3.12 ERA, 1.20 WH/IP, and 56 K’s in 57 innings of work. His BABIP however is in the .270s, meaning he does get hit around a good amount. His career walk numbers are also below par. His career walk rate is at about 10 percent translating to a 3.59 BB/9 in 2022.
His breaking pitches were what grabbed attention in the minor leagues. His curveball on average drops 49 inches down and 14 inches to the LHB box. It’s by far an above-average pitch with exceptional movement, and good spin, at 2800+ RPM which is also reputable for a starting pitcher. He had an 0.68 expected batting average on that curveball.
Schmidt has great command of the curveball, as he throws most of his pitches in the lower quadrant of the zone. However, his fastballs end up hanging over the middle portion of the zone. Command of these pitches will certainly limit the walks and hard contact, and it will definitely result in more success.