As the Yankees gear up for Game 3 of the ALDS against the Kansas City Royals, Clarke Schmidt is set to make his first postseason start. Speaking to the press on Tuesday, Schmidt expressed his excitement for the opportunity and acknowledged the challenge posed by the Royals.
“They don’t strike out a lot, which kind of plays really well in a playoff format,” Schmidt said, highlighting the Royals’ ability to put the ball in play.
Pettitte confident in Clarke Schmidt’s readiness
Despite the pressure of a postseason start, Yankees legend Andy Pettitte is confident Clarke Schmidt is ready for the challenge. Pettitte, who holds 19 career postseason victories, believes Schmidt has all the tools necessary for success.
“I think he’s ready for it, ready for the moment,” Pettitte said ahead of the Yankees’ 4-2 loss in Game 2, which tied the series at 1-1. “He’s taken his game to the next level this year in terms of command, preparation, and maturity. His stuff is elite.”
Pettitte’s influence on Clarke Schmidt’s development
Andy Pettitte, who has served as an advisor to the Yankees since 2013, has closely followed Clarke Schmidt’s progress through the minor leagues. His mentorship has been a key factor in Schmidt’s development as a pitcher.
“Clarke has always had great stuff—his sinker, his breaking ball—but what I’ve always admired is his competitive nature,” Pettitte added. “He’s ready for this.”
Clarke Schmidt, a 2017 first-round draft pick, secured his spot in the Yankees’ starting rotation last season after primarily serving as a reliever. He posted a 9-9 record with a 4.64 ERA in 32 starts, despite a lat injury that sidelined him for part of the season. His performance down the stretch solidified his place in the rotation, setting him up for this postseason opportunity.
Boone’s confidence in Clarke Schmidt
Yankees manager Aaron Boone echoed Pettitte’s belief in Clarke Schmidt’s readiness for Game 3, praising his competitive spirit and work ethic.
“Clarke is fully equipped to handle this moment,” Boone said. “He’s super competitive and loves everything that goes into pitching. He’s prepared and will go out there with confidence.”
Clarke Schmidt has consistently kept the Yankees in games, allowing three earned runs or fewer in all but one of his 16 starts this season. Boone believes Schmidt’s composure under pressure will be vital in the high-stakes atmosphere of Game 3.
Clarke Schmidt prepared to seize the moment
As Clarke Schmidt prepares to face the Royals in Kansas City, he remains focused on making the most of the opportunity. “This is every kid’s dream, to start a playoff game for the Yankees,” he said. “I’m ready to seize the moment.”
With the backing of both Pettitte and Boone, Clarke Schmidt is set to take the mound in a crucial game that could shift the balance of the ALDS. The Yankees are counting on his poise and preparation to help them take the lead in the best-of-five series.
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