Baltimore – Cam Schlitler Shines for Yankees in Playoff Pursuit
Cam Schlitler is making a strong case for being one of the Yankees’ playoff starters. The rookie right-hander delivered an impressive performance on Sunday, showcasing his improved fastball control in a 7-1, 10-inning win over the Orioles at Camden Yards.
During his outing, Schlitler allowed just three hits and issued only one walk while striking out six in 5⅓ innings. Manager Aaron Boone commented, “I liked how he hit 100 mph and maintained his lead in counts. His performance was solid again. He had to battle through some 3-2 counts but handled it well. If he stays in the strike zone, he’s got the potential to excel.”
Reflecting on his last start in Minnesota, Schlitler acknowledged that things had not gone as planned, as he struggled in five innings, walking three batters and failing to get out of the frame, even with a commanding 10-1 lead.
But on Sunday, from the get-go, Schlitler was sharper. He executed his pitches crisply, starting the game with fastballs clocked at 98, 99, and again at 99 mph within the first 15 pitches.
His lone walk occurred after inducing a curveball that caught the Orioles’ rookie catcher, Samuel Bazaro, off-guard. Schlitler reflected, “We’re focusing on fastball commands while also trying to refine my secondary pitches. I had a slight slip in the fifth, but overall, it’s a significant improvement from last week.”
All six of his strikeouts came from fastballs reaching or exceeding the top of the strike zone. He remarked, “Fastballs worked well today. I was able to mix in some sinkers and curveballs, then elevated my fastballs. Definitely saw positive results.”
As the Yankees consider their playoff rotation—figuring out who will follow Max Fried and Carlos Rodon—it seems they’re narrowing it down to Schlitler and Lewis Gill. Gill is set to start against the White Sox on Tuesday, and Schlitler is currently on track to face the Orioles again on Saturday. They’re even taking advantage of the Monday holiday to optimize their pitching lineup and ensure Rodon gets the normal rest he needs.
