Yankees right-hander Clarke Schmidt completed the third start of his rehabilitation mission on Monday.
In Double-A Somerset’s game against the Mets’ Binghamton Rumble Ponies, Schmidt (right latissimus strain) threw 70 pitches (46 strikes) over 4.2 IP.
He allowed two runs on three hits (one home run), while allowing seven strikeouts and no walks.
“Yeah, it was a great feeling,” said Schmidt, who added that he felt at full strength. “Obviously, I’m continuing to build up the pitch count and keep getting out in games. And it’s good to have that feeling of coming out for the fifth inning, getting up the pitch count and feeling healthy. I’m really happy with that.”
Last Wednesday at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, Schmidt allowed one run on three hits in three innings while allowing five strikeouts and one walk.
Five days earlier, he had begun his rehab stay with Somerset, allowing one run on one hit – a solo home run – and six strikeouts on one walk over 3.2 IP.
“I’m in really good shape physically, I’m recovering really well and everything is going really well – I’m just really happy with what we’re achieving every five days now and I’m really looking forward to reaching the next level,” said Schmidt.
Schmidt, who New York originally placed on the injured list in late May, has a 2.52 ERA and a 1.14 WHIP in 11 starts for the Yankees this season.
New York finishes its series at the Texas Rangers before three games against the Cubs from Friday to Sunday in Chicago, where Schmidt said he is expected to return.
“I will meet the team in Dallas and will definitely pitch in Chicago this weekend,” Schmidt said.
