The Yankees leaned on Cam Schlittler after a wave of injuries leftaron Cole and Schmidt sidelined. Stroman was released, and Schlittler seized the moment with a 2.76/8-start pace, including six-scoreless vs Washington and a near-perfect outing against Tampa. The rookie’s 100-mph fastball and polished secondary stuff have steadied a rotation that looked shaky months earlier, turning a desperation move into a postseason-leaning asset for New York.

While regression figures loom (high strand rate, HR/9), Schlittler has delivered consistency—never allowing more than three earned runs in a start—and has become the likely No. 3 starter behind Fried and Rodón in the playoff push. The deadline shakeup also reshaped the bullpen with Bednar’s addition, underscoring how Chicago-like volatility can unlock a team’s depth in October.

The New York Yankees continue to bolster their lineup, recently acquiring Ryan McMahon and Amed Rosario to enhance their offensive firepower. McMahon's performance has made an immediate impact, while Rosario's versatility positions him well for daily play. Despite these additions, the Yankees' front office remains keen on further strengthening the roster, particularly seeking a right-handed hitter capable of playing shortstop, a move interpreted as a critique of Anthony Volpe's current performance. There are whispers of the Yankees exploring options for a short-term solution, which may alleviate pressure on the young shortstop.

As trade discussions heat up ahead of the deadline, the Yankees are also considering bolstering their pitching staff, especially with Clarke Schmidt's injury. However, the market appears limited, with most available hitters being left-handed or outfielders, prompting speculation about potential under-the-radar acquisitions. With only days remaining until the deadline, the Yankees' pursuit of another bat raises questions about Volpe's future and the team's direction in strengthening their roster.

Clarke Schmidt, the Yankees' right-hander, is optimistic about his recovery after undergoing a procedure on his pitching elbow's ulnar collateral ligament. Having avoided a full Tommy John reconstruction, Schmidt is aiming for a return after the All-Star break next season. He expressed relief that the surgery involved reattaching the ligament rather than replacing it, which can lead to a longer recovery.

This procedure comes after a season where Schmidt recorded a 3.32 ERA over 14 starts, showing potential as a solid pitcher. His journey began with discomfort during a game against the Guardians, leading to subsequent struggles and ultimately surgery. Schmidt's prior experience with Tommy John surgery adds depth to his current situation, as he compares it to a more straightforward recovery this time around.