Yankees’ Game 3 Starter Decision

If the Yankees require a starter for Game 3 against the Red Sox, the choice will likely be rookie Cam Schlittler, according to manager Aaron Boone.

On Monday, Boone mentioned that Schlittler would follow Max Fried and Carlos Rodon in the wildcard series. “We’re confident one of our five starters will be available, but we believe Cam is the right choice for Game 3,” he said after team practice in the Bronx.

If the Yankees manage to succeed against the Red Sox, it’s likely that Schlittler would also take the mound for Game 1 of the ALDS against the Blue Jays. But there’s still a lot to work through before reaching that point.

Schlittler started the season at Double-A, but he was called up to the Major Leagues in July after Clarke Schmidt was sidelined for Tommy John surgery. The 24-year-old has taken full advantage of his opportunity, showcasing a 2.96 ERA over 14 starts, along with 84 strikeouts in 73 innings pitched.

Lewis Gill began Game 162 on Sunday, making him unlikely to be part of the wildcard series roster. Boone mentioned that he was finalizing the roster on Monday, but Will Warren might still have a shot to join the team as a backup option.

Boone and Red Sox manager Alex Cora, who share a friendship from their time at ESPN, have had a competitive history, with Cora holding a 4-1 record against Boone in postseason matchups over the past three seasons. Boone expressed respect for Cora and noted, “He’s really good. His team reflects his leadership well.”

After securing a playoff spot over the weekend, Cora humorously dismissed claims that the Red Sox weren’t expected to succeed this year, saying those assertions were “F-King Bulls – T.” Boone seemed amused by that remark, adding, “I think he played ‘little engine over there.’ People knew the Red Sox would be a threat this year; he’s doing great things.”

Meanwhile, Lucas Giolito will not be a contender for the Game 3 starting position for the Red Sox due to an elbow injury, as Cora confirmed on Monday.