BOSTON — Cam Schrittler Reflects on the Yankees-Red Sox Rivalry
Growing up near Walpole in the early 2000s, Cam Schrittler acknowledges that the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry isn’t quite the same as it used to be.
Yet, with a chuckle, Schlitler remarked, “I think we’re moving in the right direction,” during a recent session inside the visiting Fenway Park clubhouse.
After his hometown team was overpowered by the Yankees in last October’s AL Wild Card Series, Schlitler is fueled to stoke the rivalry. The finale of the series, set for Thursday night, is especially significant for him. Much of the attention revolves around the online harassment directed at his family before his playoff start against the Red Sox, which he transformed into motivation. He showcased his skills in that series-clinching win, responding not just through his pitching but also with his remarks postgame and on social media.
While the 25-year-old insists his main aim isn’t merely to rekindle the rivalry, he concedes that it can have its benefits.
“I think our goal when playing our district rivals is to give our best performance,” he shared. “If the rivalry inspires some players, as I believe it does, that’s wonderful. If not, then it’s unimportant.”
Schlitler has often drawn from the disrespect he’s received throughout his career, using it to fuel his drive on the mound. He now employs three types of fastballs to keep batters on their toes.
So far, he’s effectively maintained his focus, staying clear of any distractions. “That’s all I saw – I mean, that’s all,” he noted. Manager Aaron Boone commented, “He’s managing it really well.”
Schlitler is aware of how far he can push the boundaries when it comes to negativity.
“I think I handled it well last year before the game, staying focused,” he reflected. “It’s about channeling that energy when needed. There’s no necessity to overdo it; at the end of the day, it’s about dominating the lineup.” Just six months after a significant playoff moment, Schlitler revealed that he and his family continue to receive threats. However, his experiences in Boston during the offseason were largely positive. He feels the typical Boston fan is approachable, noting that “it’s mostly online folks who show no respect.”
As he prepares for his first professional start at Fenway Park, he’s uncertain of just how hostile the atmosphere might be. He anticipates a “great atmosphere,” particularly when warming up in the bullpen and feeling the fans’ intensity.
“He’s someone who hates losing and carries a great deal of confidence,” Boone said, adding with a laugh, “But we should probably minimize his social media interactions.”
Schlitzer, who pitched at his former school, Northeastern, on Monday, expects a sizable crowd of family and friends for Thursday’s game. Not too long ago, he dreamt of playing at Fenway, but those aspirations didn’t align with donning a Yankees uniform until the draft came calling.
That dream might not have included playing a pivotal role in reviving the famed rivalry.
“I was a bit taken aback by the social media negativity,” Slhitler admitted. He reiterated that winning championships remains his priority, asserting that engaging with social media isn’t the route to achieving that.
