The Yankees' up-and-coming starting pitcher is close to returning from injury

The New York Yankees could soon have reinforcements in their starting lineup.

With Luis Gil currently on the injured list due to a back strain, the Yankees are also waiting for the return of right-hander Clarke Schmidt.

The 28-year-old has been on the injury list since May 30 due to a strain of the right latissimus, which led to an interruption of his successful season campaign.

Manager Aaron Boone told reporters before Wednesday's series loss to the Washington Nationals that Schmidt would likely make another start after his second rehab appearance in Triple-A on Wednesday.

Schmidt said earlier this month that he plans to return to the active roster in late August, while general manager Brian Cashman was a bit more cautious, suggesting a mid-September return.

The former first-round pick in the 2017 MLB Draft has completed two rehab missions so far and has shone in both.

In his first rehab appearance in Double-A last week, Schmidt threw 3.2 innings, allowing a home run as his only hit, while allowing six strikeouts and one walk on 48 pitches.

In his second rehab outing on Wednesday in Triple-A, Schmidt threw 3.0 innings with one run, allowed three hits and one walk, and struck out five players, increasing his total to 58 pitches.

In 11 starts with 60.2 innings pitched before his injury, Schmidt had a record of 5-3 with a 2.52 ERA.

The Yankees need more consistency in their starting lineup, so Schmidt's return would be a welcome surprise if he can quickly return to his early-season form.

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