There’s nothing quite like outdueling a former teammate, just ask Clarke Schmidt.
The Yankees pitcher had a little extra motivation heading into Tuesday night’s clash against Michael King and the Padres. King, now in San Diego, returned to the Bronx for the first time since being traded two seasons ago. What followed was a friendly but fiery showdown between two pitchers who know each other well.
Both guys held their own, each allowing just two runs over six innings. But it was Schmidt who walked away with bragging rights. Why? The Yankees erupted for 10 runs in the seventh inning and walked off with a statement 12-3 win.
After the game, Schmidt didn’t hold back.
“There’ll be a little bit of chirping,” he said with a grin. “How can you not talk a little s**t after that?” Schmidt said.
This was more than just another start for Schmidt. He had dealt with injury issues in recent months and entered the game battling side soreness, having not pitched in nine days. But he looked sharp and focused, especially knowing who was on the other side.
Michael King’s Bronx Return Was Personal And Tough
As for King, he took it like a pro. He admitted he was trying not to let emotions get to him in his return to Yankee Stadium. Even with Aaron Judge taking him deep for a solo shot, King kept his cool on the mound. But he knew exactly what was coming once the game ended.
“I was thinking there was gonna be a chance, I started walking to the other dugout,” King said. “But I didn’t do that. So that was a win.”
Still, he couldn’t stop Schmidt from grabbing the edge in their friendly rivalry.
“Hopefully, somewhere down the line, we can reunite,” Schmidt said. “It’s kinda like playing one of your brothers in the backyard.”
The duel was a flashback to their days grinding in the Yankees’ system together. And while they are both in different uniforms now, the bond and the trash talk clearly live on.