Yankees’ Kam Schlitler Shines in MLB Debut
It’s hard to say right now if Wednesday night’s game is a glimpse of the future, a brief flash, or just a showcase ahead of the approaching trading deadline.
However, one thing is clear: Kam Schlitler provided exactly what the Yankees needed. He had moments that had fans buzzing, even calling him “St. Schlit.”
In his MLB debut, the 24-year-old pitcher delivered a solid performance, guiding the Yankees to a 9-6 victory over the Mariners at home. After filling in for Clark Schmidt, who is undergoing Tommy John surgery, Schlitler left the mound to a rousing standing ovation from 35,651 fans appreciating his effort.
On a day when the Yankees (51-41) designated veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu for assignment and made it clear they need a third baseman, general manager Brian Cashman noted that pitching remains a pressing concern, given that three key starters from last year’s World Series team are now absent.
No matter the changes, addressing pitching needs will likely remain crucial.
Still, Schlitler’s showing against the Mariners was noteworthy, especially considering his rise through the Yankees’ farm system. He concluded his outing allowing three runs on four hits (including two solo homers) and recorded two strikeouts against MLB home run leader Cal Raleigh.
The first strikeout came in the opening inning with a blazing 100 mph fastball. His final pitch, a 98 mph heater, also sent Raleigh back to the dugout.
Interestingly, the fastest pitch thrown by the Yankees this season came from reliever Yerry de los Santos at 98.5 mph. Schlitler, on the other hand, had several impressive throws during his debut; notably, six of his pitches reached the 100 mph mark in the first inning alone.
The Yankees offered plenty of offensive support, jumping to a 3-0 lead in the bottom of the first and continuing from there, with Jazz Chisholm Jr. hitting two home runs.
Jasson Domínguez, batting leadoff, contributed three hits, including an RBI double in the sixth inning. Aaron Judge added to the lead with a two-run double, extending it to 9-4.
After Schlitler’s exit in the sixth, Jonathan Roashga entered but quickly surrendered a two-run homer to Randy Arozarena, tightening the score to 6-4.
In the seventh, the Mariners pulled closer with another two-run shot, underscoring the urgency for bullpen improvements as the trade deadline nears.
However, Luke Weaver, who struggled last week, performed admirably in a scoreless 1²/₃ innings, and Devin Williams closed the game successfully, securing his 13th save.
