Yankees’ Cam Schlittler nurses minor back issue, still eyes opening day
TAMPA, FLA. — The New York Yankees’ pitching prospects have been dealt a few blows this spring, but the team’s young ace, Cam Schlittler, maintains his focus on the season opener despite a recent back issue.
The 25-year-old right-hander revealed yesterday that he’s dealing with inflammation in his back, which will keep him off the mound for a few days. However, manager Aaron Boone and Schlittler both downplayed the injury, labeling it minor.
“I’ve been dealing with this for a while now, so I just want to make sure I have it under control and I’m ready for opening day.”
Schlittler, who broke into the league last July, made quite an impression in his rookie campaign. He finished with a 4-3 record and a 2.96 ERA across 14 starts, striking out 84 batters in 73 innings. Despite the back issue, the Yankees expect Schlittler to be a linchpin of their rotation in 2026.
Key Moments of Schlittler’s 2025 Season:
- Began the campaign in the minors before earning a call-up on July 9.
- Tossed eight scoreless frames against the Boston Red Sox in the Wild Card Series.
- Struggled some in the Division Series, allowing four earned runs in 6 1/3 innings against the Toronto Blue Jays.
Schlittler underwent testing, which, Boone reported, “more or less turned up good news.” The pitcher is expected to resume throwing next week.
Young Guns to Fill Injury voids
The Yankees are hardly strangers to injury woes this spring. They’re set to start the season without ace Gerrit Cole, who is still recovering from Tommy John surgery, and lefty Carlos Rodón, who is awaiting the return of strength in his left arm after a procedure to remove loose bodies and a bone spur.
Right-hander Clarke Schmidt is also expected to miss most of the season following UCL repair surgery last July.
“We’re obviously very excited about [Schlittler] and we expect him to be a key part of our rotation and we continue to look forward to it.”
“Did you know?”: Schlittler’s Fastball velocity
Cam Schlittler’s fastball averaged an impressive 98 mph in 2025. Since the pitch plays a significant role in his success, fans can expect him to put it to good use once he’s back on the mound.
Young Ace’s Resilience
Schlittler first felt the back issue a few weeks ago, describing it as minor swelling, possibly accompanied by side discomfort. Despite the recent setback, the young pitcher remains confident in his ability to bounce back and contribute to the Yankees’ 2026 campaign.
FAQs
Will Cam Schlittler be ready for opening day?
Despite the back issue, Schlittler and the Yankees express optimism that he will be ready for the season opener.
What’s the Yankees’ rotation situation for opening day?
The Yankees are expected to start the season without Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón. Cam Schlittler’s status is uncertain due to the recent back issue.
Yankees’ Pitching Showcase
The New York Yankees have no shortage of enthusiasm when it comes to Cam Schlittler and his potential. As he continues to nurse his back, baseball enthusiasts will eagerly await his return to the mound, hoping he can build on the impressive 2025 campaign that cemented his status as a star in the making.
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