Editing Clarke Schmidt (section)

== Professional Career ==

=== Draft and Minor Leagues (2017–2020) ===
The '''New York Yankees''' selected Schmidt in the first round (16th overall) of the '''2017 MLB Draft''', signing him for a $2,184,300 bonus. Due to his recent surgery, he did not pitch in 2017. In 2018, Schmidt debuted professionally with the '''GCL Yankees''' (Rookie-level) and '''Staten Island Yankees''' (Low-A), posting a 3.09 ERA over 23.1 innings.

In 2019, Schmidt progressed through the Yankees’ minor league system, starting with the '''Tampa Tarpons''' (High-A) and advancing to the '''Trenton Thunder''' (Double-A). His performance showcased his potential as a top prospect, earning him a promotion to the major leagues on '''September 4, 2020'''.

=== MLB Debut and Early Years (2020–2022) ===
Schmidt made his MLB debut on September 4, 2020, as a relief pitcher for the Yankees. His rookie season was limited due to the COVID-19-shortened schedule, and in 2021, a right elbow strain sidelined him early in spring training. Despite setbacks, Schmidt showed promise in spot starts and relief appearances, relying on a mix of a four-seam fastball, two-seam fastball, slider, and changeup.

In 2022, Schmidt split time between the majors and minors, refining his command and adding a cutter to his arsenal. His versatility made him a valuable swingman for the Yankees.

=== Breakout and Rotation Role (2023–2025) ===
Schmidt joined the Yankees’ starting rotation full-time in 2023, posting a 4.64 ERA over 159 innings. In 2024, he took a significant step forward, achieving a 2.52 ERA and a 19.0% K-BB rate before a right lat strain sidelined him for three months. Upon returning in September, he struggled with rust but showed glimpses of his refined cutter, sweeper, sinker, and knuckle-curve, which kept hitters off-balance.

As of June 2025, Schmidt has solidified his role as a reliable starter, with a career ERA of approximately 3.16 across 62.2 innings in the 2025 season. He recorded a standout performance on June 16, 2025, pitching 7.2 scoreless innings against the Los Angeles Angels, lowering his ERA to 3.16. His consistency, with six starts of at least 6 innings in 2025, marks a career milestone.
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