Clarke Schmidt Set to Make Historic World Series Start for Yankees, With Family Ties in the Air

As the New York Yankees prepare to face the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 3 of the World Series, pitcher Clarke Schmidt is poised to make his first-ever World Series start. The 28-year-old right-hander has been a crucial component of the Yankees’ rotation this season, posting a 2.85 ERA in 16 starts during the regular season and a 3.86 ERA in two postseason starts.

Schmidt’s performance this year has been impressive, despite not being as durable as some of his teammates like Carlos Rodon and Nestor Cortes. He has racked up 93 strikeouts in 85.1 innings, with a WHIP of 1.18. His postseason experience, though limited, includes five career appearances, with two in the 2024 postseason.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Schmidt’s family has played a unique role in the Yankees’ journey to the World Series. His father, Dwight Schmidt, a retired Marine Corps colonel and Delta Air Lines captain, has been piloting the team’s family charter flights during the World Series. Dwight Schmidt has a long history with Delta, having flown various aircraft including MD-88s, 727s, 757s, and 767-400s. He has also arranged for Yankees manager Aaron Boone to use a Delta flight simulator, an experience Boone described as “really cool”.

In Game 3, Schmidt will face off against the Dodgers’ Walker Buehler, a seasoned veteran with extensive postseason experience. Buehler, despite struggling with injuries and a higher ERA in the 2024 season, brings valuable experience to the mound, having started in two previous World Series games.

The matchup against the Dodgers will be challenging, especially given the current 2-0 Series deficit for the Yankees. However, Schmidt’s strong season and the support of his family, both on and off the field, could provide the momentum needed for a turnaround.