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Clarke Schmidt faces pressure in pivotal World Series game
LOS ANGELES — As the Yankees find themselves on the brink of elimination, all eyes are on Clarke Schmidt. The upcoming Game 3 of the World Series against the Dodgers is not just another game; it’s a critical juncture for the Yankees, who trail the series 2-0.
Schmidt, who will take the mound in The Bronx for the first time in a World Series, understands the weight of the moment.
Pressure mounts for Schmidt
“All the games I pitch are pressure at this point,” Schmidt remarked after the Yankees’ recent 4-2 loss to the Dodgers.
The stakes couldn’t be higher, and Schmidt is ready to embrace the challenge. He emphasized that every game is treated as a must-win, a mentality that resonates throughout the team. “Whatever the record is, we’re treating each game like we have to win every game,” he stated, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Strong regular season performance
Schmidt had a commendable regular season, boasting a 2.85 ERA over 16 starts. However, his playoff performances have been less than stellar, lasting only 4 ²/₃ innings in each of his two outings. Despite allowing just two earned runs in both games, the competition will be significantly tougher against the Dodgers.
Schmidt acknowledges the challenge, stating, “Just top to bottom, very sound,” referring to the Dodgers’ formidable lineup.
Preparing for the electric atmosphere
As Schmidt gears up for his first playoff start at Yankee Stadium, he is aware of the electric atmosphere that awaits him.
“Excitement, obviously we all know how big of a game it is,” he said. However, he knows that managing emotions will be crucial. “Keeping emotions at bay is important,” he added, recognizing that while the game is monumental, he must not let the pressure overwhelm him.
With the Yankees’ season hanging in the balance, Schmidt’s performance in Game 3 could be the turning point they desperately need. The team is looking to replicate the historic comeback of the 1996 Yankees, who overcame a similar deficit. As the clock ticks down to game time, all eyes will be on Schmidt to see if he can rise to the occasion and lead his team back into contention.
