Yankees Pitcher Clarke Schmidt Pulled From Game With Biceps Cramping

Clarke Schmidt, who recently made his return to the mound after Tommy John surgery, was sidelined from the New York Yankees' loss on Sunday due to cramping in his right biceps. The pitcher was warming up for his second appearance since his return when the issue arose.

Schmidt described the cramping as a "very, very minor, just precautionary" concern, emphasizing that all tests, including those for his shoulder and elbow, came back clear. "Nothing structural, it was more precautionary," Schmidt stated. "Obviously given the circumstance, coming back from surgery, I don’t want to push through anything."

Despite the apparent minor nature of the issue, Schmidt is scheduled to see the Yankees' team doctor upon their return home. No further testing was immediately planned as of Sunday.

This development adds another layer of concern for the Yankees as they navigate the final week of the regular season. Schmidt's role in the playoff bullpen, just 14 months removed from major surgery, remains a delicate prospect for the team.

Schmidt had made his season debut on Wednesday. He was slated to pitch on Saturday night as well, but manager Aaron Boone opted for Michael Fulmer, who subsequently gave up a walk-off home run. Schmidt again warmed up in the bullpen in the sixth inning on Sunday, but the biceps discomfort led to Tim Hill entering the game instead. "I’m hoping it’s not a big deal, but enough to have him not go into the game," Boone commented. "We’ll see what we have there."