The New York Yankees’ 2024 season came to a close yesterday, with a disappointing 5-2 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays. Clarke Schmidt, the team’s promising young pitcher, struggled to find his rhythm, battling both the opposing lineup and the elements. The rainy conditions at Yankee Stadium made every pitch a challenge, but Schmidt’s performance was a stark contrast to his impressive showings earlier in the season.
Schmidt, who entered the game with a 3.47 ERA, was expected to deliver a strong outing, especially considering the Yankees’ postseason hopes were already dashed. However, the right-hander’s command was off from the start, issuing three walks in the first two innings. The Rays capitalized on Schmidt’s erratic pitching, scoring two runs in the second inning courtesy of a Randy Arozarena RBI double.
I just couldn’t find my groove,” Schmidt said post-game. “The rain made it tough to grip the ball, but that’s no excuse. I’ve pitched in worse conditions before. I just didn’t execute.” Schmidt’s struggles continued throughout the evening, surrendering three more runs in the fifth inning, including a solo home run to Rays’ catcher, Francisco Mejia.
Despite the loss, Yankees manager Aaron Boone remained optimistic about Schmidt’s growth. “Clarke’s had an incredible season. Tonight wasn’t his best, but he’s shown us what he’s capable of. We’re excited to see him build on this experience.” Schmidt finished the season with a 10-7 record and 3.63 ERA, impressive numbers for a pitcher who began the year in the bullpen.
The Yankees’ offense, meanwhile, was unable to muster much against Rays’ starter, Shane McClanahan. Aaron Judge, the Yankees’ star outfielder, provided the only spark, launching his 40th home run of the season in the fourth inning. However, the team’s bats went quiet thereafter, managing just three hits over the final five innings.
As the Yankees head into the offseason, attention turns to next season’s roster construction. With Schmidt’s development and Judge’s continued dominance, the team’s core remains strong. However, questions surround the pitching staff’s depth and the infield’s defensive capabilities. General Manager Brian Cashman will face pivotal decisions to ensure the Yankees return to contention in 2025. For now, the Bronx Bombers can only reflect on a season that fell short of expectations, with Clarke Schmidt’s stormy outing serving as a fitting metaphor for the team’s disappointing finish.
