Yankees Showdown with Red Sox: A Family Affair
If the Yankees couldn’t overcome the Red Sox in their series on Thursday, it wouldn’t be for lack of passion or dedication from their players.
Cam Schlittler, raised in Walpole, Massachusetts, grew up surrounded by Red Sox fans, just a short drive from Fenway Park. Yet, despite this, he embraced the Yankees wholeheartedly, turning his family into supporters of the pinstripes.
“I think being from Boston is something I’m proud of,” Schlittler reflected as his team pushed for a win in Game 3 with a close 4-3 victory. “This is where I feel I belong. My whole family? They’re diehard Yankees fans.”
Interestingly, his relatives may have to root for a “Boston kid” who will now be trying to defeat the Red Sox.
The Yankees tapped Schlittler, just 24 years old, to start in the pivotal Game 3 of the wildcard round. This follows injuries impacting their pitching lineup, including Lucas Giolito.
If Yankees manager Aaron Boone opts to combine Schlittler with teammate Ben Rice, it could present an intriguing scene—two boys from Massachusetts eager to upset their childhood favorites.
Despite having 14 starts in the major leagues, Schlittler has yet to face the Red Sox. However, there was a moment five years ago when he pitched during a spring training exhibition at a Red Sox facility in Fort Myers, Florida. “It was an amazing experience,” he recalled. “I was a different player back then, honestly didn’t think I’d be in this position now, but here we are.”
This current moment holds so much for him—his journey through the league and his childhood team dreams now intertwining.
Earlier this season, after being called up amid several injuries—particularly with Clark Schmidt requiring Tommy John surgery—Schlittler earned a permanent spot in the rotation, posting a 2.96 ERA.
The Yankees made some moves, transitioning from Marcus Stroman and bringing Ryan Yarbrough back into the bullpen while evaluating options like Alan Winans, but it’s clear they’re impressed with Schlittler’s progress.
“You can see his competitive nature,” Boone commented on Schlittler. After a strong spring and impressive performances at Double A Somerset and Triple A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, he has shown remarkable coachability and accountability. “He’s really worked hard to earn these opportunities as the season draws to a close.”
As the game approaches, Schlittler’s family is preparing to support him. They’re just a few relatives, but they’ll be cheering for the Yankees in the biggest game of their lives.
