Clarke Schmidt, the New York Yankees' right-hander, will start the season on the injured list due to a shoulder issue, as confirmed by GM Brian Cashman. This injury adds him to a growing list of unavailable starters, including Gerrit Cole, who is out for the season after Tommy John surgery, and Luis Gil, expected to miss at least two months with a lat injury. Schmidt had a solid 2022 season, boasting a 2.85 ERA in 16 starts, but struggled this spring with a minor shoulder injury, limiting his preparation time.

Despite his injury, Cashman noted that Schmidt is improving and should not miss significant time. Another right-hander, Carlos Carrasco, is poised to seize the opportunity as a non-roster invitee, while rookie Will Warren is likely to fill the final rotation spot, despite a challenging previous season. In addition, Ian Hamilton will also begin the season on the injured list after a recent infection.