Clarke Schmidt's potential need for a second Tommy John surgery casts a dark shadow over the New York Yankees' already beleaguered pitching staff. Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed that Schmidt has suffered a significant injury to his ulnar collateral ligament, likely sidelining him for this season and much of the next. The 29-year-old right-hander showed promise with a 3.32 ERA in 14 starts this year, but this setback is a crushing blow for a team reeling from multiple injuries, including ace Gerrit Cole's absence for the season. Boone noted that the team will explore available options, with Cam Schlittler as a likely short-term solution. Other injured pitchers, such as Luis Gil and Ryan Yarbrough, are nearing returns, adding a glimmer of hope amidst the turmoil.