The New York Yankees welcomed back pitchers Clarke Schmidt and Ian Hamilton at an opportune moment.

Timing is crucial, and the New York Yankees illustrate this perfectly.

Having lost three out of their last five series before their three-game matchup with the Chicago Cubs, the Yankees have been struggling recently. However, their fortunes have shifted at Wrigley Field, coinciding with the return of key pitchers Clarke Schmidt and Ian Hamilton.

New York activated Schmidt and Hamilton from the 60-day injured list, while designating right-handers Phil Bickford and Nick Burdi for assignment to make room for them.

For updates and insights, check out MLB Insider Robert Murray’s work on The Baseball Insiders podcast, subscribe to The Moonshot, our weekly MLB newsletter, and join the discord for the latest news until the MLB offseason.

Prior to today’s game, the Yankees made the following roster moves:
• Returned RHP Clarke Schmidt (#36) from his rehab assignment and reinstated him from the 60-day injured list.
• Returned RHP Ian Hamilton (#71) from his rehab assignment and reinstated him from the 60-day…

— New York Yankees (@Yankees) September 7, 2024

Although Schmidt and Hamilton missed the first game of the series against the Cubs, the anticipation of their return invigorated the struggling Yankees. Schmidt made a significant impact in his return to the starting rotation, helping secure a 2-0 win on Saturday.

Schmidt had been sidelined for over three months due to a right lat strain. He pitched in Chicago for the first time since May 26, delivering 4.2 scoreless innings, allowing only four hits, and striking out two batters. The 28-year-old appeared to be in good form, which is promising for the Yankees.

Hamilton, who was out since mid-June with a similar injury, also returns to the bullpen. Although he hasn’t played against the Cubs yet, his return is a welcome boost. Before his injury, Hamilton had a 0-1 record with a 4.55 ERA, a 1.584 WHIP, and 30 strikeouts in 29.2 innings. His comeback provides the Yankees with a dependable arm they’ve been missing.

The timing of Hamilton and Schmidt’s return is ideal as the Yankees compete closely with the Baltimore Orioles for the American League East title and try to recover from their recent slump.