Baltimore Update: Yankees Focus on Playoff Preparation
As next week unfolds, the Yankees are zeroing in on securing a playoff spot. Their aim? To clinch a wild card position that allows them to host the first-round series while prioritizing player health.
Additionally, they’ll need to clarify who will take the mound for Game 3, or, if they advance, who will start Game 1 of the ALDS.
In a recent 6-1 win over the Orioles at Camden Yards, Max Fried and Carlos Rodon each showcased their skills, solidifying their spots as Game 1 and Game 2 starters. However, the decision for the next starter seems to come down to Cam Schlitler, Lewis Gill, and, to a lesser extent, Will Warren.
Moving forward in October, the Yankees will undoubtedly require four starters. How they decide to structure the rotation remains a topic of discussion. Schlitler will have another opportunity to impress against the Orioles on Sunday, followed by another game against the White Sox on Tuesday.
“Performance is key, and I think as we get closer to that point, it becomes crucial,” commented manager Aaron Boone this week. “They all have a bit more to show, so hopefully, they put us in a position to make tough choices based on their performances.”
If everything goes according to plan, Schlitler will be poised to pitch against the Orioles next Saturday. This timing allows him to take a normal break ahead of a potential Game 3 in the AL Wild Card series, if needed.
Gill is expected to pitch on Tuesday, setting him up for another start on Sunday, which could complicate the Yankees’ wild card options. They might have preferred to keep their options open if there were no stakes in Game 162.
The choice of opponent for the first round is still uncertain, with possible matchups against the Astros, Red Sox, Mariners, Tigers, or even the Guardians looming.
“Just stay observant,” Boone advised of the pitchers. “Watch how they navigate tough situations. If we make it to that stage, it’ll be interesting to see how they hold up against teams that might excel in tight bullpen scenarios.”
Last season, Gill was available from the bullpen for the ALDS. The team had Gerrit Cole, Rodon, and Clark Schmidt starting, but those players were somewhat shaky and ended up launching into Game 4 of the ALCS and the World Series.
The Yankees might consider utilizing Schlitler’s fastball from the bullpen, yet there’s also significant value in putting him in a primary role. The 24-year-old has only thrown four relief pitches throughout his pro career.
Interestingly, the Yankees don’t seem overly concerned about how their rookies handle the pressure that comes with playoff baseball.
“From the beginning, I felt he was a tough kid, quite confident. He’s really invested in honing his skills and learning from his experiences,” Boone stated. “I see him doing great work, and he appears to be growing more confident as he gains experience.”
Whether Schlitler or Gill gets the nod could ultimately hinge on their next performances. Schlitler has shown promise in the majors, even though he faced some challenges when he walked five batters against the Twins.
In the meantime, Gill has been gradually improving since his return from earlier performance strains in August.
One aspect to monitor is how Schlitler copes with heavier workloads. Previously, he only pitched 120 innings last season, yet this year, he has already surpassed 137⅓ innings.
“I feel good,” Schlitler remarked. “Clearly, I’ve gone beyond my previous innings count, so I’m doing my best to stay on top of that. Overall, my body feels great.”
